Age and cytochrome P450-linked drug metabolism in humans: An analysis of 226 subjects with equal histopathologic conditions*

Abstract

This study shows a reduction of in vitro and in vivo drug metabolism with age in humans. The data suggest that at least three age groups--young, middle-aged, and elderly--should be included in the evaluation of the pharmacokinetics of a new drug. The reduction of drug metabolism (-30%) after 70 years of age indicates that care is needed in the prescription of drugs for elderly subjects.