Drug-Device Combinations: Are They Appropriate for the Aging Population?
Hundreds of marketed products combine drugs with delivery devices. Experts estimate that these drug-device combinations (DDCs) generated nearly $24 billion in sales in 2014. DDCs appeal to clinicians and consumers for several reasons. Drugs delivered with a technology-assist
may cause fewer side effects, avoid systemic exposure, result in a higher degree of efficacy, or create consistent blood levels. When physicians prescribe a DDC, consultant pharmacists have a unique role: ensuring patients can use the DDC appropriately. Available DDCs require some degree of
eye-hand coordination, and older individuals often have difficulty with vision, dexterity, and grip strength. This review primarily discusses three types of DDC: those designed for diabetics, inhalers, and transdermal DDCs, and the characteristics that can challenge older patients.
Keywords: DIABETES; DRUG-DEVICE COMBINATIONS; ELDERLY; INHALERS; PEN INJECTORS; TRANSDERMAL DRUG-DELIVERY SYSTEMS
Document Type: Research Article
Affiliations: University of Connecticut School of Pharmacy, Storrs, Connecticut, USA
Publication date: 01 May 2016
- The Consultant Pharmacist® is the official peer-reviewed journal of the American Society of Consultant Pharmacists. It is dedicated exclusively to the medication needs of the elderly in all settings, including adult day care, ambulatory care, assisted living, community, hospice, and nursing facilities. This award-winning journal is a member benefit of ASCP. Individuals who are not members and wish to receive The Consultant Pharmacist® will want to consider joining ASCP.
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