DRUG INTERACTION IN THE ELDERLY IN DENTAL PRACTICE

Abstract

The dental surgeon is competent and qualified to prescribe medications, which are used in clinical practice when necessary. However, knowledge of the pharmacology of these drugs is essential, including possible drug interactions, especially in elderly patients, who are more exposed to polypharmacy. Therefore, the study aims to evaluate possible drug interactions of routine drugs for elderly patients, with drugs that are prescribed by different dental specialties. To carry out the literature review, a search was carried out in the BVS and MEDLINE virtual databases, in which the descriptors were used: Dentistry; Drug interactions; Dental care for seniors. In addition, books, monographs, dissertations, theses and articles published in the last 20 years were included, including national and international texts, and that were related to the theme. Studies that did not address the subject of drug interaction in dentistry or that were not available in full were excluded. The elderly population is the one that most uses drugs, since, in this age group, chronic diseases are more common, such as diabetes, arterial hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. It is not uncommon for these patients to have more than one comorbidity, using several medications simultaneously. In Dentistry, the drug treatment of some conditions and the administration of local anesthetics is commonplace, and may result in drug interaction. In addition, polypharmacy increases susceptibility to adverse effects. Among the most used drugs in dentistry that can trigger drug interactions are: local anesthetics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics. The success of dental treatment depends on the theoretical and practical knowledge of the dental surgeon. Being aware of possible drug interactions that may occur with patients is of paramount importance in preventing health problems and in the reduction of expenses associated with health care.