Spotlight on Aging: Antibiotics

When doctors prescribe antibiotics for older adults, they may prescribe a lower dose than usual because the kidneys tend to function less well as people age. In such cases, the kidneys may not be able to eliminate antibiotics from the body as effectively, increasing the risk of side effects. (See also Aging and Medications.)

Doctors also consider the following:

• What other medications the person is taking because interactions among medications are a risk and older adults tend to take many medications

• Whether the antibiotic regimen is complex and hard to follow

• Whether the person has family members or caregivers who can help the person take the antibiotic as prescribed