The present thesis is based on the following original papers, referred to in the text by the Roman numerals I–IV. Some unpublished data are also presented.
I Linjakumpu T, Hartikainen S, Klaukka T, Veijola J, Kivelä S & Isoaho R (2002) Use of medications and polypharmacy are increasing among the elderly. Journal of Clinical Epidemiology 55: 809–817.
II Linjakumpu T, Hartikainen S, Klaukka T, Koponen H, Kivelä SL & Isoaho R (2002) Psychotropics among the home-dwelling elderly – increasing trends. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry 17: 874–883.
III Linjakumpu T, Hartikainen S, Klaukka T, Koponen H, Kivelä SL & Isoaho R (2003) A model to classify the sedative load of drugs. International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry 18: 542–544.