Problem:
Respond to DQ answer as a hospice nurse who gives Seroquel frequently to Alzheimer patients in paragraph form. Seroquel is listed on the AGS Beers Criteria "avoid" list because antipsychotics significantly increase the risk of stroke, cognitive decline, orthostatic hypotension, and mortality in older adults (American Geriatrics Society, 2023). I've seen quetiapine prescribed for insomnia or agitation, but older patients often experience excessive sedation for even 24 hours shortly after starting it. The hospital often sees families worried about their loved ones that are unable to participate in their care. These effects make sense when you consider age-related pharmacokinetics. Older adults have increased body fat, which prolongs the distribution of lipophilic drugs like Seroquel, causing the sedative effects to last much longer. Hepatic metabolism also slows with age, reducing clearance and increasing serum levels even at low doses. Reduced renal function further contributes to drug accumulation. In the specific unit where I work, patients often have poor renal and/or hepatic function, so awareness of the current Beers Criteria is especially important. Together, these changes heighten the risk of falls, delirium, and daytime impairment. The Beers Criteria specifically warns against using antipsychotics for behavioral symptoms unless non-drug approaches fail, andrecent evidence reinforces that quetiapine carries a meaningful fall and cognitive risk in older adults. Need Assignment Help?