Which organ is primarily responsible for the decreased clearance leading to higher drug levels in the elderly?

Which organ is primarily responsible for the decreased clearance leading to higher drug levels in the elderly?

• A. Kidneys
• B. Lungs
• C. Liver
• D. Heart

Answer: (A)

Kidneys are the main organ responsible for clearing many drugs from the body through filtration and secretion. As people age, renal function often declines, reducing the glomerular filtration rate and renal perfusion. This slower clearance means drugs stay in the bloodstream longer, raising their levels and the risk of toxicity if doses aren’t adjusted. While the liver also metabolizes drugs, the age-related increase in drug levels more commonly stems from decreased kidney function. Monitoring renal function (like eGFR or creatinine clearance) helps tailor dosing for older patients. The heart and lungs aren’t the primary routes for clearance of most medications.

Kidneys are the main organ responsible for clearing many drugs from the body through filtration and secretion. As people age, renal function often declines, reducing the glomerular filtration rate and renal perfusion. This slower clearance means drugs stay in the bloodstream longer, raising their levels and the risk of toxicity if doses aren’t adjusted. While the liver also metabolizes drugs, the age-related increase in drug levels more commonly stems from decreased kidney function. Monitoring renal function (like eGFR or creatinine clearance) helps tailor dosing for older patients. The heart and lungs aren’t the primary routes for clearance of most medications.