Use and abuse of psychoactive drugs in the elderly.

The elderly are susceptible to many psychiatric symptoms caused by the vast array of drugs they may take. Therefore, history-taking demands a very careful look at all their medicines. In this paper some dangers of over-the-counter drugs are described, and the paradox of psychotropic drugs sometimes causing psychiatric side effects is discussed. Several types of drugs and their side effects are outlined, and suggestions are made for appropriate drug treatment in this age group.