Description
Chronic asthma is common in the elderly population and is often under treated. There are several considerations to be borne in mind when applying asthma treatment guidelines to older adults. A reduction in perception of bronchoconstriction may lead to under-use of bronchodilators prescribed on an as required basis. Sensitivity to beta-agonist bronchodilators is reduced with age, and so the addition of anticholinergic inhalers may be necessary at an early stage. Inhaler technique is more often a problem in the elderly and alternatives to the standard metered dose inhaler may be necessary. Older patients are at increased risk of drug toxicity, particularly from oral theophylline preparations; steroid side effects may also be more frequent in the elderly.
