Final answer:
The most common drug classes prescribed to manage pain in geriatric patients are analgesics, which include opioids such as morphine and oxycodone, and non-opioid medications like acetaminophen and NSAIDs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen.
Step-by-step explanation:
Common Pain Management Drug Classes in Geriatrics
The most common drug classes prescribed to manage pain in geriatric patients are analgesics. These include a variety of medications designed to relieve pain without causing loss of consciousness. Analgesics come in different forms, including opioids such as morphine, oxycodone, and fentanyl, and non-opioid medications like acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin and ibuprofen.
While opioids can be highly effective, they are generally reserved for more severe pain and cases where other medications are not effective due to their risk of addiction and side effects. NSAIDs are also frequently used to manage pain and inflammation but can come with risks, especially for gastrointestinal issues, cardiovascular events, and kidney damage. Acetaminophen is often chosen for its lower risk profile, though it must be used carefully to avoid liver damage.
Prescribing pain medications in the geriatric population requires careful consideration of the balance between pain relief and potential side effects, as well as the increased risk of medication interactions and sensitivities due to age-related changes in drug metabolism and clearance.