Which group should be assessed for pharmacokinetic changes related to lifespan?

The assessment of pharmacokinetic changes related to lifespan is particularly important for older adults. As individuals age, their bodies undergo various physiological changes that can affect drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. For instance, older adults may experience a decline in renal function, changes in liver metabolism, and alterations in body composition, all of which can significantly impact how medications are processed in their bodies.

While pharmacokinetic changes can occur in different age groups, including children and adults, the most pronounced and critical changes often occur in the older population due to the complexities of polypharmacy and the presence of comorbidities. Therefore, focusing on older adults is essential for ensuring safe and effective medication management in this group.

Other age groups may have unique pharmacokinetic considerations—children, for example, may have different metabolic rates and dosing requirements—but the emphasis on older adults is particularly significant because of the increased vulnerability to adverse drug reactions and the need for careful monitoring and adjustment of medications.