Aim: In a previous study, we reported on the relationship between gait speed and the number of medications and prescription content. Elderly people frequently complain of dry skin. Therefore, to screen elderly patients with dry skin according to prescription content, we investigated the effects of prescription content on stratum corneum moisture content and body mass index (BMI), which is an indicator of body weight.
Methods: A total of 31 patients over 65 years of age taking five or more medications were enrolled. The stratum corneum moisture content, BMI, and prescription content were evaluated.
Results: The subjects were classified into a laxative medication group and a non-medication group. The stratum corneum moisture content and BMI were significantly lower in the medication group than in the non-medication group. These results suggest that elderly people who take medicated laxatives experience a significant decrease in stratum corneum water content and may develop dry skin.
Conclusions: It was considered necessary to pay attention not only to the number of medications but also to the prescription content.
