Medications have become increasingly effective in providing relief from symptoms of mental health disorders. Medications can help the brain recover from mental illnesses by targeting specific neuro-communication pathways and chemical imbalances that disrupt normal brain functioning.

In later life, physical changes occur that impact the human body’s ability to absorb, metabolize and excrete medications. The average number of medications that an older person takes on any given day is five. Almost half of medications commonly prescribed for older adults have sedating side effects.

The side effects of one drug can be intensified by the effects of another. This is called “drug-drug interaction." Older adults should know the symptoms and effects of drug interactions. Clear communication with doctors, pharmacists and other health care professionals is necessary. It is critical that an older adult take medications with regular consultation and oversight by health care professionals.

When talking with a health care professional about taking mental health medications, you should know the names of the other medications you take, the dose, frequency and times of day they are taken. It's very important to include over-the-counter (non-prescription) medications like laxatives, aspirin, eye drops, vitamins, herbal remedies, cold medicines, antacids, etc.

Over-the-counter medications are often overlooked though they frequently contribute to negative drug interactions. Some people choose to put all of the medications they take (in the original containers) into a bag to take with them to visit the doctor.

“Psychotropic medications” are drugs that work to heal illness in the brain. There are many types of psychotropic medication to address different mental illnesses and symptoms. Because the brain is a delicate, sensitive and vital organ of the body, people must always take psychotropic medications with the consult of a doctor. Psychotropic medications must never be shared. The dosage directions must be carefully followed. People need to know that some medications take several weeks before it starts to work, and they should report any negative side effects to their doctor.

Antidepressant medications
Antidepressant medications are divided into “classes” according to the types of action they take in the brain. Skilled medical professionals select the class of medication to use based on an individual’s symptoms, medical history and other patient information. People should never share medications and they should be patient until the most effective medication is found. Remember, this could take several weeks to determine.

Antidepressant medications can help to restore an individual’s energy level; relieve sleep, appetite and physical problems; improve mood and behavioral symptoms; and help people participate in activities and relationships. Studies show that medication is most effective when combined with talk therapy.

Side effects of antidepressant medications can be bothersome to some and detrimental or even harmful to others, especially for a person with dementia. Side effects might include dry mouth, dizziness, low-blood pressure, confusion and appetite changes. For an older adult, some of these side effects raise the risk of falls and other accidents.

Antianxiety medications
Using medications to treat anxiety disorders is very effective. Antianxiety medications are another category of drugs that should be monitored very carefully when used by an older adult. Because these medications can have strong sedating effects that build up quickly, they are commonly recommended for short-term use. Other effects of antianxiety medications may include memory problems and risk for dependence.

Doctors should carefully consider a patient’s symptoms, history, other medications and health conditions to choose the safest and most effective medication for anxiety. Sometimes antidepressant medications or blood pressure medications can help with anxiety and agitation.

Antipsychotic medications
Sometimes people have hallucinations and delusions (beliefs that do not have root in reality i.e. paranoia) related to mental illness or dementia. Such psychotic symptoms may improve with medications. The side effects of these medications can be risky and it is essential that people taking antipsychotic medication have frequent monitoring by their doctor. Some of the antipsychotic medications require routine blood tests to monitor the impact of the drug on the body.

Dementia medications
Medications may be prescribed to help slow the progression of Alzheimer’s Disease though the efficacy of such medications is controversial. More common are medications to treat the symptoms of dementia such as agitation, depression, anxiety and hostility.

Alternative medications
Dietary supplements and herbal remedies are examples of “alternative medications" or therapies that are increasingly popular. Supplements are not considered “drugs” under the FDA (Federal Drug Administration) regulations. They are not subject to the same criteria for efficacy proof, manufacturing and dosage safety requirements. However these substances can significantly impact body systems. Vitamins, minerals and herbal remedies should be considered for their potential interactions and effects. Health care professionals should be told of any alternative medications or therapies being used by an older individual.

Over the Counter Medications
Older adults are the greatest consumers of over-the-counter (OTC) medications which include laxatives, eye drops, cold medicines and antacids. People often mistakingly believe that OTC medications are safe. They usually are, however, they can easily be misused, abused and negatively interact with other medications and therapies. Always report all OTC medication use to your health care provider.

Alcohol is a “depressant” drug that poses a serious risk for over-sedation and negative interference with the healing purpose of a medication. Because alcohol is a commonly used substance and effects the body differently in later life, people should know more about alcohol use and try to avoid it when taking any of the medications described above.