What is an important factor to consider when administering medication to elderly patients?

When administering medication to elderly patients, understanding their altered pharmacokinetics and potential for increased sensitivity is crucial. As individuals age, their bodies undergo various physiological changes that can significantly impact how drugs are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted. For instance, decreased renal function can lead to slower elimination of medications, while changes in liver function can affect drug metabolism. Additionally, older adults may have altered receptor sensitivity, resulting in heightened responses to certain medications or increased risk of adverse effects.

These considerations highlight the necessity for careful dosage adjustments and monitoring in older populations to ensure effective and safe medication management. Addressing these pharmacokinetic changes helps mitigate risks associated with polypharmacy and reduces the likelihood of negative drug interactions, which are common in this age group.