Utilization of essential medications by vulnerable older people after a drug benefit cap: importance of mental disorders, chronic pain, and practice setting

Article Abstract:

A three prescription per month reimbursement cap on Medicaid patients in New Hampshire is studied for its effect on older patients with multiple chronic illness. To meet the restrictions, doctors reduced required medications by 34.4%. Patients complained of increased pain, sleeplessness and increased psychiatric problems on reduced doses.

New Hampshire, Aged, Research, Laws, regulations and rules, Social policy, Prescription drug plans, Medicaid, Gerontology, Drug utilization, Drug monitoring, Geriatric pharmacology, Old age assistance

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Effects of long-acting versus short-acting calcium channel blockers among older survivors of acute myocardial infarction

Article Abstract:

Long-acting dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers after a heart attack may reduce the risk of complications and death in older patients. Compared to short-acting dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers, the long-acting version was linked to fewer rehospitalizations and deaths in 833 heart attack survivors. The effects of non-dihydropyridines are less conclusive in view of unfavorable mortality rates.

Evaluation, Patient outcomes, Mortality, Drug therapy, Cardiac patients, Calcium channel blockers

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Delayed thrombolytic treatment of older patients with acute myocardial infarction

Article Abstract:

A study of patients hospitalized for heart attack treatment indicates that the very elderly with severe comorbidty are more likely to receive delayed thrombolytic treatment after hospital presentation.These patients have the highest death rate from acute myocardial infarction and thus likely to derive the most benefit from speedy treatment.

United States, Health aspects, Care and treatment, Fibrinolytic agents, Thrombolytic drugs

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