Clinical Pharmacology of Cancer Therapies in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Arti Hurria, Shari M. Lichtman
Primary Institution: City of Hope, Duarte, CA, USA; Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Commack, NY, USA
Hypothesis
How do physiologic changes associated with aging affect the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of anticancer therapies?
Conclusion
The pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of anticancer therapies have been understudied in older adults, and further research is needed.
Supporting Evidence
- Approximately 60% of cancer diagnoses and 70% of cancer mortalities occur in individuals age 65 and older.
- Age-related changes in physiology can impact drug absorption, metabolism, and clearance.
- Older adults are at increased risk for myelosuppressive complications from chemotherapy.
Takeaway
As people get older, their bodies change, which can affect how cancer treatments work. We need to study this more to help older patients better.
Methodology
This review outlines physiologic changes with aging and discusses studies on anticancer therapies in older adults.
Potential Biases
Clinical trials have typically focused on younger populations, potentially overlooking older patients' needs.
Limitations
Most studies have small sample sizes and may not detect subtle changes in pharmacokinetics.
Participant Demographics
Older adults, particularly those aged 65 and older.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website