Читать книгу The Dentist's Drug and Prescription Guide - Mea A. Weinberg - Страница 30

1 Q. Are dosage adjustments necessary in the elderly patient?

2 A. Yes. Volume of drug distribution, drug clearance (renal function), protein binding, and metabolism are altered in the elderly, necessitating a reduction in drug dosage. If necessary, contact the patient's physician. Additionally, there is a difference in body composition (decreased muscle mass) and function. The elderly may also have increased sensitivity to drugs because the liver metabolizes and kidneys excrete the drug less efficiently.

3 Q. Is kidney function reduced in the elderly?

4 A. Yes. Renal function progressively declines as one ages even though there could be normal serum creatinine values. Since many drugs are excreted through the kidneys, a reduction in drug dosage is necessary.

5 Q. Is liver function reduced in the elderly?

6 A. Yes. There may be a significant reduction in hepatic function, and it is important to reduce the dose of drugs metabolized by the liver.