How does hepatic metabolism change with age in older adults?

In older adults, hepatic metabolism tends to decrease due to reduced liver blood flow, which is a common physiological change that occurs with aging. As individuals age, various factors contribute to a decline in hepatic blood flow, including reduced cardiac output and potential structural changes in the liver itself. This decrease in blood flow can lead to a reduced capacity for the liver to metabolize drugs and other substances effectively.

As a result, medications may have a prolonged half-life and increased bioavailability, necessitating careful consideration of dosing in older populations to avoid toxicity or adverse effects. This understanding is crucial for healthcare providers when prescribing medications to older adults, as they may respond differently than younger individuals due to these age-related changes in hepatic metabolism.