Do younger people metabolize medicines faster than elderly people?

Question

Do younger people metabolize medicines faster than elderly people?

Answer 1

Yes, overall they do--largely because of reduction of kidney function as people age and reduced elimination by the liver.

It is highly individual, though.

Answer 2

Yes they do. Metabolization occurs in the liver. As a person ages there is a decrease in the number and size or hepatic cells which decreases the weight and mass of the liver. This change and an increase in fibrous tissue lead to decreased protein synthesis and changes in liver enzymes. Enzyme activity and cholesterol synthesis are diminished.

Decreased enzyme activity depresses drug metabolism, which leads to accumulation of drugs-possibly toxic levels.  Decreased blood flow to the kidneys leads to a decreased GFR, these combined lead to decreased excretion of drugs.

So in the end the elder need to be monitored for adverse effects and drug toxicity.