Is taking 4 different medications overkill for a 95 year old person?
My mother is 95 years of age. She is now taking Amlodipine Tab 10 mg., Dipyridamole Tab 75 mg., Metoprolol Tab 25mg. and Lisinopril Tab 80 mg. daily. She is sluggish. And her mental faculties are quickly diminishing. She seems more active and a memory is somewhat better if she discontinues the medication for awhile. Is all of this medication necessary for someone her age. She has no symptoms of heart trouble and weighs about 112 lbs.
Barbara Copeland,
Thanks for your question.
There are several questions that need answering in your Mother's situation. What is her blood pressure? Has the dosage of her medication been slowly increased over time? Was her doctor aware of her stopping her medication for "awhile"?
Elderly patients are unique. They can react differently to standard medications and may be more sensitive to standard doses.
With your questions, it seems like it's time to see a geriatric specialist for a complete evaluation. Geriatric Medicine is now a sub-specialty with its own Board Certification. This is exactly the situation that geriatricians are perfect for. He/she will perform a complete history and physical examination, review her medication, and then sit with your Mother and you to discuss her current status and what changes would be best for her.
I hope this has been helpful.
Martin Cane, M.D.
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