WHAT IS THE BEERS LIST?

WHAT IS THE BEERS LIST?

WHAT IS THE BEERS LIST? 150 150 Dan Frith

No…it is not a list of the most popular adult beverages.

In 1991, a panel of doctors and clinicians with expertise in geriatrics researched the effects of different drugs on senior citizens. Their research resulted in the creation of the Beers List. A list of medications that are generally considered inappropriate when given to elderly people. For a wide variety of individual reasons, the medications listed tend to cause side effects in the elderly due to the physiologic changes of aging.

The list (revised in 2003) includes Xanax, Elavil, Tagamet, Flexeril, Valium, Benadryl,
Estrogens, Prozac, Vistaril, Toradol, Ativan, Demerol, Naprosyn, Avaprox, Aleve, and many, many more. You may view the complete Beers List here.

My Take: If your loved one has been prescribed any of these medications…talk to the doctor. Make certain there is a good reason for taking the prescribed drug. Determine what alternatives, if any, exist. Finally, watch your family member like a hawk and make sure they don’t suffer from the side effects which can be caused by these medications.

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About the author

Dan Frith

Dan Frith has over 25 years of experience representing individuals and families in cases of medical malpractice throughout Virginia. He has been named "Best Medical Malpractice Attorney" by Roanoker Magazine and is a member of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum. To speak with Dan, contact him by email at dfrith@frithlawfirm.com.

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