First-Generation Antihistamine Use in Geriatric Emergency Department Patients: Retrospective Review

The authors aimed to evaluate the frequency of use, indications, and adverse drug effects of first-generation antihistamines in older adults visiting the emergency department (ED). Their retrospective study found that these medications were administered in 3% of geriatric ED encounters, with 92% of uses deemed potentially inappropriate and a 15% incidence of adverse effects, particularly in patients aged 85 and older or with cognitive impairment. The findings highlight the need for caution in prescribing these medications to older adults in the ED setting.