Toxicology in Geriatric Patients

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Why are geriatric patients often excluded from clinical trials in toxicology?

Due to their decreased morbidity and mortality rates from poisoning.

As a result of their increased morbidity and mortality rates from poisoning. (correct)

Because they require lower doses of medications with narrow therapeutic index.

Because they have faster clearance of drugs and toxins.

What physiological changes in the elderly contribute to prolonged toxic effects of drugs and toxins?

Slower clearance of drugs and toxins due to reduced renal and hepatic function. (correct)

Rapid clearance of drugs and toxins.

Increased renal and hepatic function.

Enhanced cognitive function.

In what way can cognitive and physical impairment in the elderly lead to accidental poisoning?

By enhancing the elimination of toxins.

By increasing the absorption of drugs.

By reducing medication errors.

By causing medication errors or misdiagnosed therapeutic agents. (correct)

How do pharmacokinetic changes in pregnancy impact the toxicokinetics of poisons?

They can result in significant alterations in toxicokinetics of poisons. Signup and view all the answers

Why might specific antidotes require different dosing regimens in pregnant patients?

Because pharmacokinetic changes in pregnancy can lead to prolonged half-life and increased volume of distribution. Signup and view all the answers

Why does physostigmine have a narrowed range of safety in pregnancy?

It can cause hyperactivity and bradycardia in the fetus with even slight overdose in the mother. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason for avoiding the use of certain drugs in cases of anticholinergic poisoning during pregnancy?

The direct toxic effect on the fetus Signup and view all the answers

Why is the risk of drug-induced developmental abnormalities highest during early gestational months?

Because it is the time of organogenesis Signup and view all the answers

What contributes to the increased risk of toxicity in geriatric patients?

Decreased total body water and lean body mass Signup and view all the answers

Why do common medications with a low therapeutic index pose a risk to geriatric patients?

As a result of their narrow therapeutic range Signup and view all the answers

What is a common factor contributing to toxicity in geriatric patients taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatories?

Impaired renal function Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for medical consultants to understand the impact of comorbid conditions on poisoning?

To prevent acute poisoning events Signup and view all the answers

What percentage of adults aged 60 and older in the United States has at least one chronic disease?

77% Signup and view all the answers

How do comorbid illnesses impact the outcome of a primary illness?

They could affect the outcome of the primary illness Signup and view all the answers

What should be considered when deciding to use a drug therapy during pregnancy?

The cost of drug treatment against potential risks Signup and view all the answers

What makes geriatric patients more susceptible to adverse reactions or intentional overdoses with medications?

Multiple medical problems and medications Signup and view all the answers

Toxicology in Geriatric Patients

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