Question

Which of the statement is true in geriatrics practice?

• A. The incidence of Adverse Drug Reactions diminishs with advancement of age.
• B. Dose reduction is inevitable for each and every drug used in geriatric patients.
• C. Patient compliance is highest in geriatric patients.
• D. Polypharmacy is often a problem in elderly.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

To determine the most accurate statement related to geriatrics practice from the given options, let's evaluate each option:

1. Option A: "The incidence of Adverse Drug Reactions diminishes with advancement of age."
   This statement is generally incorrect. In geriatric patients, the incidence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) tends to increase with age due to factors such as polypharmacy (use of multiple medications), age-related physiological changes affecting drug metabolism and excretion, and increased susceptibility to drug interactions.
2. Option B: "Dose reduction is inevitable for each and every drug used in geriatric patients."
   While dose adjustments are often necessary to accommodate age-related changes in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, it is not true that every drug requires dose reduction for geriatric patients. Each medication should be assessed individually based on the specific circumstances and health conditions of the patient.
3. Option C: "Patient compliance is highest in geriatric patients."
   This statement is typically not accurate. Geriatric patients often face challenges such as impaired cognition, complex medication regimens, and physical limitations, which can actually reduce compliance with treatment plans.
4. Option D: "Polypharmacy is often a problem in elderly."
   This statement is true. Polypharmacy, defined as the use of multiple medications by a patient, is indeed a common issue in elderly populations. It can lead to an increased risk of ADRs, drug-drug interactions, and challenges in medication management.

Based on the above analysis, Option D: "Polypharmacy is often a problem in elderly." is the correct answer.