PSA Prescribing in Special Populations

Question 1

Why do elderly patients require special prescribing considerations?

Accepted Answer

Altered pharmacokinetics (reduced kidney/liver function, body composition changes) and increased sensitivity to many drugs

Answer

Aging reduces kidney and liver function, changes body fat distribution, and increases drug sensitivity, requiring lower doses and careful monitoring.

Question 2

What is the principle of 'start low, go slow' in elderly prescribing?

Accepted Answer

Begin with the lowest effective dose and increase gradually to minimize adverse effects

Answer

This approach minimizes adverse drug reactions in elderly patients by starting at a reduced dose and titrating up slowly based on response and tolerability.

Question 3

What prescribing risks exist during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Drugs may cross the placenta and cause teratogenic effects on the developing fetus

Answer

Many drugs cross the placenta and can harm fetal development, especially during the first trimester. Benefits must clearly outweigh risks for any prescribed medication.

Question 4

Why is prescribing in children different from adults?

Accepted Answer

Children have different body composition, metabolism rates, and organ maturity affecting drug handling

Answer

Children are not miniature adults: their drug metabolism, body water content, organ function, and body surface area differ significantly, requiring weight-based or surface-area-based dosing.

Question 5

What considerations apply to prescribing in renal impairment?

Accepted Answer

Drug accumulation risk requires dose reduction or interval extension for renally-eliminated drugs

Answer

Impaired kidneys cannot excrete drugs normally, causing accumulation. Dose adjustments based on creatinine clearance or eGFR are essential for renally-eliminated drugs.

(PSA) Prescribing Safety Assessment Practice Test

(PSA) Prescribing Safety Assessment Practice Test

PSA Prescribing in Special Populations