A case study: inappropriate use of amitriptyline in the elderly.

In 1999, nearly 7 million elderly persons were prescribed potentially inappropriate medications as identified by Beer's Criteria. Amitriptyline is among the most frequently inappropriately prescribed drugs according to Beer's Criteria. Interventions to educate prescribers on Beer's Criteria are indicated to improve appropriate prescribing to the elderly population. Nurses also need to be aware of the potential adverse effects of these drugs when providing care to geriatric patients.