Developing a Political Economy of Drugs and Older People

A review essay on books by: Helene L. Lipton & Philip R. Lee, Drugs and the Elderly: Clinical, Social and Policy Perspectives, (Stanford, Calif: Stanford U Press, 1988); & William A. McKim & Brian L. Mishara, Drugs and Ageing, (Toronto: Butterworths, 1987 [see listings in IRPS No. 54]). Lipton's & Lee's work is noted for its comprehensive assessment of strategies to protect & educate older consumers & its highly recommended chapter on US initiatives targeting the older population. McKim's & Mishara's volume reflects the Canadian experience & is noted for its coverage of recreational drugs; however, its perspective is more limited than Lipton's & Lee's book, & less attention is devoted to posing strategies for dealing with the issues it discusses. Both are recommended as part of the continuing discussion on how to develop rational prescribing policies for the elderly. 16 References. L. Taub