Pharmacotherapy of pneumonia occurring in older patients

Abstract

The elderly population is characterized by several baseline conditions that increase the risk and modify the etiology of pneumonia. Immunosuppression caused by either concomitant morbidities or treatments, susceptibility to aspiration, residency in long-term facilities, or frequent use of antimicrobials are some factors that need serious consideration in selecting the most appropriate treatment. In the absence of these conditions, pneumonia can be treated according to locally adapted international guidelines; however, specific diagnostic and therapeutic strategies should be applied in the presence of these parameters, providing coverage for more resistant agents. Polymedication by the elderly poses a high risk for potentially severe drug interactions; consequently, modifications of dosages may be necessary along with close monitoring for clinical signs of adverse effects or serum levels of some drugs. Wide influenza and pneumococcal vaccines can significantly contribute to improving the future of the disease.

Keywords::

• antimicrobials
• community-acquired pneumonia
• elderly
• health care-associated pneumonia
• phamacokinetics

Notes