Gastrointestinal bleeding associated with antithrombotic therapy in the elderly in Japan.

Purpose: To determine if concerns regarding an increased incidence of adverse effects when anticholinergic (AC) medications are utilized in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients (pts) over 65 years old are valid. Methods: A prospective, outcomes study was set up to review treatment results of IBS pts age > 65, at a community based GI practice in Altamonte Springs, Florida. Of 966 individual IBS pts seen in 2009, 192 were > 65 years old, and were prescribed AC medication, including hyoscyamine, chlordiazepoxide/clidinium, dicyclomine and belladonna/phenobarbital. Usual recommended adult dosages were administered. Charts were reviewed for side effects, duration of IBS and clinical association of stress, anxiety and depression. Results: 83% (159/192) of pts were much improved (>75% better) with AC treatment. 12% (23/192) were somewhat better ( 65 years old. 3. Stress, anxiety and /or depression were present in 84% of pts. 4. IBS symptoms began after age 65 in 43% of these pts, with 71% beginning after age 55. 5. Hopefully, more studies will be done with AC medications as they are efficacious, cheap and show few side effects, contrary to popular belief.