Antirheumatic agents: CNS toxicity and its avoidance
Iobst, W.F.; Bridges, C.R.; Regan-Smith, M.G.
Geriatrics 44(4): 95; 99
1989
ISSN/ISBN: 0016-867X PMID: 2647590 Document Number: 341793
Altered drug metabolism, polypharmacy, multiple diseases, and errors in self-medication are all factors seen in the elderly which increase the risk for side effects from antirheumatic drug therapy. The geriatric presentation of central nervous system (CNS) toxicity, which is common yet frequently overlooked, is reviewed as it pertains to various drugs commonly used to treat rheumatic disease. Practical advice on avoiding common pitfalls in antirheumatic prescribing is offered.