AGE-RELATED CHANGES IN DRUG ABSORPTION, DISTRIBUTION AND RESPONSE: IMPLICATIONS FOR GERIATRIC PHARMACOTHERAPY

U. Naga Jahnavi*, P. Sailaja and Y. Prapurnachandra

ABSTRACT

Aging is accompanied by physiological transformations that impact various organ systems, leading to significant alterations in drug pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Additionally, functional changes such as diminished vision, hearing, swallowing ability, motor skills, and cognitive function can interfere with proper medication adherence and administration. As a result, older adults, particularly those over the age of 75, are among the highest consumers of both prescription and over-the-counter medications, often managing multiple drug regimens simultaneously. Despite an understanding of age-related physiological changes, including shifts in body composition, declining renal function, and altered cardiovascular responses, there remains a gap in evidence-based strategies for optimizing medication prescribing in the elderly. This review highlights the clinically significant changes in drug metabolism and response in aging individuals, examines the impact on commonly prescribed medications, and explores potential adjustments in drug dosing to enhance therapeutic efficacy while minimizing adverse effects. Furthermore, recommendations are provided on how aging-related factors can be incorporated into drug development, regulatory approval processes, and prescribing guidelines to improve pharmacological care for older adults.

Keywords: Aging, Body Composition, Renal Function, Pharmacokinetics, Pharmacodynamics, Geriatric Pharmacotherapy.