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Geriatric veterinary pharmacology
1Department of Anatomy and Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, 228 Coles Hall, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA. kukanich@ksu.edu
Summary
Geriatric dogs and cats may experience altered drug pharmacology due to organ dysfunction or disease. Understanding these changes is crucial for safe and effective geriatric veterinary medicine.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pharmacology
- Geriatric Medicine
- Animal Health
Background:
- Geriatric dogs and cats represent a significant patient population in veterinary medicine.
- Physiology and pharmacology in healthy geriatric animals are presumed similar to adults.
- Subclinical organ dysfunction in geriatric animals can alter drug pharmacology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the altered drug pharmacology in geriatric veterinary patients.
- To highlight the impact of common geriatric diseases on drug effects.
- To identify potential drug-drug interactions in older animals.
Main Methods:
- Review of physiological and pharmacological principles in geriatric animals.
- Discussion of common diseases affecting geriatric dogs and cats.
- Analysis of how underlying diseases influence drug action and interactions.
Main Results:
- Geriatric patients with subclinical organ dysfunction may exhibit altered drug responses.
- Overt diseases in geriatric animals (cardiovascular, renal, hepatic, etc.) significantly impact drug pharmacology.
- Potential for altered drug efficacy and increased adverse events due to disease-specific changes and drug-drug interactions.
Conclusions:
- Age-related physiological changes and diseases necessitate careful consideration of drug use in geriatric pets.
- Veterinarians must assess organ function and potential interactions to optimize pharmacotherapy in older animals.
- Tailored pharmacological approaches are essential for managing health conditions in geriatric dogs and cats.
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