Gerontology & Geriatric Research

Wehling M

Publications

• Commentary
  Antihypertensive Drugs in the Elderly: Risks and Benefits as Evaluated by the FORTA Method
  Author(s): Kuhn-Thiel AM and Wehling MKuhn-Thiel AM and Wehling M
  
  The management of polypharmacy in the elderly is a growing concern worldwide. Taking multiple medications can cause more harm than good, given that an estimated 100,000 medication-related deaths occur in the U.S. annually. Specific criteria were established by Beers (1997) for drugs to avoid in elderly patients. Although widely used, no clinical endpoints were improved, thus stressing the need for additional positive labeling of drugs as data on morbidity, mortality and safety become available for this patient collective. The FORTA (Fit fOR The Aged) method is the first approach combining positive and negative labeling of drugs. Class A drug is indispensable, B drugs have some restrictions, and C drugs are critical and need careful balancing of desired/undesired effects. D drugs should generally be avoided. Commonly-used medications for major diseases, among them hype.. View More»
  DOI: 10.4172/2167-7182.1000171

  Abstract PDF