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Drug pharmacodynamics in geriatric patients

The aging organ system can cause changes in a drug’s effect because of its role in drug-receptor or drug-organ interactions Aging causes many receptors to function less efficiently and reduces the density of beta receptors. As a result, geriatric patients have a diminished response to drugs such as isoproterenol and increased toxic reactions to beta blockers such as propranolol. Aging also produces a decline in parasympathetic control, which enhances the effects of anticholinergics, and reduces the number of neurotransmitters, particularly dopamine and acetylcholine, which may influence the effects of drugs such as phenothiazines and chlorpromazine.
     
   

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