Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Considerations in Elderly Population

Physiological changes with age may alter absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of drugs in the elderly population. Reduced elimination and prolonged half-life are most commonly observed pharmacokinetic changes in older patients whereas altered sensitivity to drugs and change in receptor affinity are major pharmacodynamic changes. These potential changes should be considered in designing dosage regimen to elderly population during clinical and pharmaceutical development as well as prescription. Understanding and managing these age-related pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics changes is an important factor for the benefit to risk ratio of a new drug product. The physiological changes affecting pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of drugs and their clinical implications are discussed here.