Medication Dosage Forms, Geriatric Pharmacokinetics, and Cultural Considerations

Vocabulary flashcards summarizing common medication dosage forms, age-related pharmacokinetic changes, and key cultural considerations in medication administration.

Capsule

Powder or gel form of an active drug enclosed in a gelatinous container; may also be called a liquigel.

Elixir

Medication in a clear liquid containing water, alcohol, sweeteners, and flavoring agents.

Enteric-coated tablet

Tablet or pill coated with a substance that resists stomach acid to prevent gastric irritation.

Extended-release (ER) preparation

Formulation that allows slow, continuous drug release over a set time; also labeled CR/CRT, SR, SA, LA, or TR.

Liniment

Medication mixed with alcohol, oil, or soap for rubbing on the skin.

Lotion

Suspension or solution of drug particles for topical application.

Lozenge (Troche)

Small flavored disc that dissolves in the mouth and gradually releases medication.

Ointment

Semisolid preparation containing medication for external application to skin or mucous membranes.

Suppository

Semisolid, cone- or oval-shaped drug form (often gelatin-based) inserted into rectum, vagina, or urethra to melt and release medication.

Suspension

Finely divided, undissolved particles dispersed in a liquid; must be shaken before use.

Syrup

Medication combined in a concentrated water-and-sugar solution.

Tablet

Compressed or molded solid dose of medication; may be coated, colored, shaped, or enteric-coated to reduce gastric irritation.

Transdermal patch

Unit dose of medication embedded in an adhesive patch applied to skin for systemic absorption over time.

Decreased gastric motility & ↑ gastric pH (older adults)

Slower gastric emptying and higher pH raise risk of nausea, vomiting, ulceration, and altered drug absorption.

Decreased lean body mass & total body water

Reduces volume of distribution for water-soluble drugs, increasing plasma levels and toxicity risk.

Reduced protein-binding sites

Lower serum albumin in elders leaves more unbound drug, raising plasma concentrations and toxicity potential.

Decreased liver function & hepatic perfusion

Slower drug metabolism prolongs drug action and heightens toxicity risk; monitor liver enzymes.

Decreased kidney function, renal mass, and blood flow

Impaired drug excretion elevates serum levels/toxicity; monitor creatinine clearance, BUN, serum creatinine.

Altered peripheral venous tone

Changes in homeostatic responses make cardiovascular drugs more potent, producing marked hypotension.

Altered blood–brain barrier & receptor sensitivity

Enhanced CNS penetration of fat-soluble drugs causes dizziness, gait disturbance, and mental-status changes.

Decreased central nervous system efficiency

Prolongs effects of CNS drugs; elders show exaggerated responses to analgesics and sedatives.

Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing medications)

Older adults may have trouble swallowing tablets/capsules; may need liquid or crushable forms.

Cultural humility

Respectful, ongoing self-reflection on cultural values and patient beliefs when teaching or administering care.

Pharmacogenetics & biologic variation

Genetic and physiologic differences (e.g., body structure, skin color) that affect drug response among ethnic groups.