When prescribing for older patients, some physicians are overly cautious, a
nd this strategy can result in a less than optimal treatment outcome. The r
eluctance to treat aggressively is understandable because the geriatric pop
ulation is susceptible to adverse drug reactions. The key to maximizing the
rapy lies in individualizing it as much as possible. There are a number of
steps physicians can take to ensure that their patients are not being under
treated. These steps include regular reevaluations of dosages and plasma dr
ug concentrations, recognition and understanding of drug side effects, and
avoidance of certain agents. Close monitoring allows physicians to minimize
risks, maximize benefits, and get the most out of what modern medications
can do to help older patients.