Antibiotic Use in Seniors: What You Need to Know

Antibiotics are drugs that kill the bacteria that cause infections. Because there are numerous types of bacteria, there are numerous antibiotics. Each is effective against a different strain of bacteria.

Antibiotics do not work against viruses or fungi.

Antibiotics have no effect on fungal or viral infections. Many skin diseases, such as ringworm and athlete's foot, are caused by fungi. Other conditions that require antifungal treatment include yeast and bloodstream infections, meningitis, and fungal pneumonia.

Interactions

Comorbidities and their medications can limit the type and dosage of antibiotics used. Antibiotics can have serious interactions with a variety of medications, including warfarin, statins, diuretics, and antirheumatics. Some vitamins, supplements, and over-the-counter medications interact with antibiotics and reduce their effectiveness.

That is why healthcare providers must be aware of everything your senior is taking. They must also be informed of all medical conditions. Immune systems and physical strength frequently deteriorate as we age. This can make a senior more vulnerable to infection. It can also make them more sensitive to antibiotics tablets and other medications.

Side Effects of Antibiotics

Antibiotics medicine can further suppress the immune system in the elderly. To overcome an infection, they may require increasingly higher doses of antibiotics. Common side effects include diarrhea and stomach upset. Antibiotics also kill the "good" bacteria that the body requires to function properly. Individuals who require antibiotics frequently may develop a potentially fatal diarrheal infection caused by the Clostridium difficile bacteria. Antibiotics can also cause nervous system side effects such as confusion and agitation.

Antibiotic resistance 

Misuse of antibiotics can contribute to antibiotic resistance. That means the drug is no longer killing bacteria, and the infection is worsening. Avoid prescriptions for antibiotics for non-bacterial infections to ensure your senior's continued good health. The full course of antibiotics must be taken exactly as prescribed. Antibiotics, like all drugs, come with instructions that must be followed in order to be effective.

Some antibiotics must be administered with food. Others must be consumed on an empty stomach. The consumption of alcoholic beverages and foods such as dairy products should be limited when using antibiotics. 

Many factors, both patient and treatment-related, contribute to the dangers of antimicrobial use in the elderly. Polypharmacy in the elderly necessitates a review of the patient's medication list to assess potential drug interactions. This step, however, is fraught with danger due to the possibility of multiple prescribers and an incomplete medication list. Even if all precautions are taken, it is possible that an adverse event will occur. For these reasons, clinicians should prescribe cautiously to avoid unnecessary treatments and closely monitor any antimicrobial therapy, no matter how mild it appears.

_{Disclaimer: Healthy Wrinkles does not recommend or offer any medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice. The information provided here is only for the awareness of disease or ailment among individuals, caregivers, and the public‌. The advice of doctors, licensed professionals, or therapists who are knowledgeable about your particular situation should always be sought before using the information provided here. It should also not be used in the event of a medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. If you want urgent assistance, contact a qualified medical professional. Additionally, the information represents the author's views and not those of Healthy Wrinkles.}