Use of Dopaminergic and Serotonergic Drugs in Older People
Author Information
Author(s): Johnell Kristina, Fischer Håkan
Primary Institution: Aging Research Center, Karolinska Institutet and Stockholm University
Hypothesis
To investigate the use of dopaminergic and serotonergic drugs in elderly people.
Conclusion
Approximately one out of ten older patients uses serotonergic drugs and one out of twenty dopaminergic drugs.
Supporting Evidence
- Dopaminergic drugs were used by 5.6% of participants.
- Serotonergic drugs were used by 13.2% of participants.
- Use of serotonergic drugs increased with age, with 23.0% of people aged ≥90 years using these drugs.
- Female gender was associated with higher use of both dopaminergic and serotonergic drugs.
Takeaway
Many older people take medications that affect their brain chemicals, which can be a problem as they age.
Methodology
Data from the Swedish Prescribed Drug Register was analyzed for individuals aged ≥65 years.
Potential Biases
Potential underestimation of drug use due to reliance on prescription data.
Limitations
The study may not include all drug use as it does not account for over-the-counter drugs or drugs used in hospitals.
Participant Demographics
Participants were individuals aged ≥65 years, with 58% being women.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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