Discuss drug–nutrient interactions in the elderly.

What will be an ideal response?


The older adult population represents one group with an exceptionally high risk for drug–nutrient interactions. There are several reasons. First, older individuals generally have the highest rate of chronic disease and are therefore prescribed the largest number of medications; this sheer volume increases risk. Furthermore, the use of over-the-counter and complementary medications compounds the incidence of interactions. In addition, drug pharmacokinetics is affected by physiological changes that occur with aging. Decreased muscle mass and impaired cardiac, liver, and renal function all are common in older adults and can change how a drug is absorbed, metabolized, and excreted. Finally, compliance with drug regimens can be an important issue for this population. Financial burdens, complex regimens, or lack of proper drug education can lead to inappropriate drug dosing.

Nutritional Science

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