Final answer:
Geriatric dosages are adjusted due to decreased absorption, altered drug distribution, and liver and kidney function changes, necessitating individualized medication regimens.
Step-by-step explanation:
Dosages are usually adjusted in the geriatric patient because of decreased absorption, altered distribution that is caused by low plasma protein levels, and alterations in liver and kidney function. These factors are all crucial in ensuring that. An elderly patient receives the correct drug dosage, to both maximize efficacy and minimize potential side effects. The albumin concentration in the blood, which affects drug binding and distribution, can vary due to several conditions such as hepatic disorders, malnutrition, kidney disorders, and dehydration. Furthermore, the efficiency of drug absorption can be influenced by the patient's ability to metabolize and eliminate drugs, with impaired liver or kidney function leading to higher drug levels and increased risk for toxicity. Therefore, geriatric patients often require careful consideration and individualized dosage regimens to address these physiological changes.