Overuse of sedating medications, sometimes as a result of over-prescription, is a major substance abuse concern among the aged.

Overuse of sedating medications, sometimes as a result of over-prescription, is a major substance abuse concern among the aged.

• A. False
• B. Not sure
• C. Rarely
• D. True

Answer: (D)

This statement is true. Older adults are especially vulnerable to the misuse and overuse of sedating medications because aging changes how the body handles drugs—slower metabolism and clearance, increased brain sensitivity to depressants, and a higher likelihood of polypharmacy. These factors raise the risk that sedatives such as benzodiazepines or sleep aids will be used beyond recommended purposes, leading to dependence, tolerance, withdrawal, and a range of adverse outcomes like daytime drowsiness, confusion, delirium, and especially falls. When these meds are over-prescribed or taken inappropriately, they become a significant substance use concern for the elderly. Addressing it involves careful medication review, deprescribing when possible, and prioritizing nonpharmacological treatments for sleep and anxiety to reduce reliance on sedatives.

This statement is true. Older adults are especially vulnerable to the misuse and overuse of sedating medications because aging changes how the body handles drugs—slower metabolism and clearance, increased brain sensitivity to depressants, and a higher likelihood of polypharmacy. These factors raise the risk that sedatives such as benzodiazepines or sleep aids will be used beyond recommended purposes, leading to dependence, tolerance, withdrawal, and a range of adverse outcomes like daytime drowsiness, confusion, delirium, and especially falls. When these meds are over-prescribed or taken inappropriately, they become a significant substance use concern for the elderly. Addressing it involves careful medication review, deprescribing when possible, and prioritizing nonpharmacological treatments for sleep and anxiety to reduce reliance on sedatives.