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The Geriatric Patient: General Physiologic and Pharmacologic Considerations

CGP, the University of Arizona, College of Pharmacy, 1703 E Mabel, Tucson, AZ 85721

The elderly patient is not simply an older adult and needs to have drug therapy applied with caution with regard to the physiologic changes associated with aging that impact the pharmacology and pharmacokinetics of medicinals used in this population. The elderly patient has a number of physiologic changes with age that affect metabolism, distribution, and excretion. In addition, there exists information that demonstrates changes in the pharmacodynamics of drug therapy commonly used in the elderly. This article reviews these changes.

Key Words: elderly, • renal system, • liver metabolism, • gastrointestinal tract, • cardiovascular, • nervous system, • body composition, • creatinine clearance, • pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics.

Journal of Pharmacy Practice, Vol. 13, No. 4, 250-262 (2000)
DOI: 10.1177/089719000001300403


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