What factor places the elderly at high risk for adverse drug reactions?

The elderly population is particularly vulnerable to adverse drug reactions due in large part to the age-related decrease in renal function. As individuals age, there is a natural decline in the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which is critical for the excretion of many medications. This diminished renal clearance can lead to higher plasma levels of drugs that are primarily eliminated through the kidneys, increasing the likelihood of toxicity and adverse effects.

Older adults often have multiple comorbidities and may be taking several medications simultaneously, further compounding the risk. As renal function declines, the dosage of renally excreted medications often needs to be adjusted to prevent accumulation and adverse reactions. This highlights the importance of regular monitoring of renal function in the elderly population, as well as careful consideration when prescribing medications that require renal elimination.

The other factors, while they may influence medication use in the elderly, do not directly correlate to the high risk of adverse reactions as prominently as the decline in renal function. For example, increased physical activity levels typically enhance cardiovascular health and may not contribute significantly to the risk of adverse reactions. Sensitivity to high doses can vary among individuals, but the broader systemic issue with renal decline is a more substantial concern. Similarly, withdrawal from medications is related to