<

Health Corner

Aging, Alcohol and Medication

Alcohol, itself a drug, is often harmful if mixed with prescription or over-the counter medicines. This is a special problem for people over 65, because they are often taking many prescription medications and using over-the-counter drugs.

Mixing alcohol with other drugs such as tranquilizers, sleeping polls, pain killers and antihistamines can be very dangerous, even fatal.

As people age, the body’s ability to absorb and dispose of alcohol and other drugs changes. The body metabolizes substances more slowly, which creates a greater risk of chemical build-up. Anyone who drinks should check with a doctor or pharmacist about possible problems with drug and alcohol interactions.

Resource: Healthy Horizons, Scottsdale Healthcare