Which factor impacts absorption in older adults?

In older adults, the absorption of medications is significantly influenced by an increased gastric pH. As people age, the production of gastric acid tends to decrease, leading to a higher pH level in the stomach. This shift can affect the solubility and stability of certain drugs, which may require an acidic environment for optimal absorption. For instance, some medications that are poorly soluble at higher pH levels may not be adequately absorbed, resulting in altered therapeutic effects or reduced efficacy.

This understanding is crucial in pharmacology, as practitioners need to consider how physiological changes in older adults impact drug absorption and thus adjust dosages or choose alternative medications that are less affected by changes in gastric pH. Therefore, recognizing the role of gastric pH is essential in ensuring safe and effective medication management in the older population.