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COSIG CONFERENCE BROCHURE.pdf - Drexel University College ...

COSIG CONFERENCE BROCHURE.pdf - Drexel University College ...

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<strong>COSIG</strong> Co-Occurring Disorders Conference, Hershey PA, May 15-17, 2006<br />

Sedatives/Hypnotics<br />

• Are usually prescribed for insomnia (which<br />

is common among the elderly).<br />

• Sleep patterns change due to aging.<br />

• Deep sleep lessens and they are more<br />

likely to awake during the night more<br />

often.<br />

• Plus, other medications may cause<br />

insomnia (e.g. MAO and SSRI’s).<br />

Ways to Treat Sleep Problems<br />

• Keep a sleep diary (times take naps,<br />

awake during the night, etc.).<br />

• Educate about sleep hygiene.<br />

• Educate about sleep patterns (naps).<br />

• Relaxation Techniques.<br />

Withdrawal from<br />

Sedatives/Hypnotics<br />

• Increased pulse rate<br />

• Hand Tremors<br />

• Insomnia<br />

• Nausea/Vomiting<br />

•Anxiety<br />

• Hallucinations<br />

•Seizures<br />

Opiates<br />

• Estimated that 2-3% of noninstitutionalized<br />

older adults receive<br />

prescriptions for opioid analgesics.<br />

• Use for the management of severe pain.<br />

• Treatment for cancer-related pain.<br />

Problem with Elderly Taking<br />

Opiates<br />

• The duration of action is longer (due to<br />

decreased metabolism and liver<br />

functioning).<br />

• More adverse side effects because of<br />

changes in receptor sensitivity.<br />

• May cause impairment of psychomotor<br />

performance.<br />

• More potent ones may cause impairment<br />

of vision, attention and motor coordination.<br />

Withdrawal from Opiates<br />

• Restlessness/dysphonic mood<br />

• Nausea/Vomiting<br />

• Tearing and Yawning<br />

• Insomnia<br />

• Diarrhea/Fever<br />

• However, not life-threatening like<br />

benzodiazepines.<br />

6

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