Effects of age on drug action.

The use of psychotropic (mood or behaviour-altering) drugs is common among older people. Age-related changes in the way drugs work cause adverse effects such as hypotension, orthostatic hypotension, memory loss, drowsiness, cognitive and psychomotor impairment. All psychotropics increase the risk of falls and fractures. Long-term use may also lead to increased tolerance, dependency, poor sleep or depression. Benzodiazepine use should be limited to short-term relief of severe anxiety or primary insomnia.