Drugs commonly used by the elderly: a review for dental practice.

ABSTRACT

Of all medications consumed in the U.S., the percentage used by the elderly is greater than can be justified by their numbers. Many medications have adverse effects. This paper reviews the 50 medications most used by the elderly and discusses adverse reactions which may present in the oral cavity or which have systemic effects with a potential impact on dental care. Composite tables summarizing the adverse reactions of interest to the dental practitioner are included for easy reference.