Pharmacology and Lifespan Considerations

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers pharmacokinetic processes and physiological considerations for pediatric and geriatric clients based on the lecture transcript.

Neonate/Pediatric Gastric Acidity

The acid producing cells of the stomach are immature until around the age of one or two years.

Neonate/Pediatric Gastric Emptying

May be decreased because of slowed or irregular peristalsis.

Neonate/Pediatric Liver Maturity

The liver is not fully mature, resulting in a decrease in first pass elimination and subsequently higher drug levels in the bloodstream.

Older Adult GI Changes

Natural results of aging include decreased blood flow to tissues within the GI tract and changes in gastric pH that may alter medication absorption.

Older Adult Plasma Proteins

Variations in available plasma proteins can impact drug levels of medications that are highly protein bound.

Peripheral Circulation in Older Adults

Decreased cardiac output can result in decreased drug absorption of subcutaneous and intramuscular injections.

Subcutaneous Fat in Older Adults

Aging often leads to having less subcutaneous fat, resulting in decreased absorption from transdermal patches.

Oral Route (PO/Enteral)

A convenient route for administration of solid and liquid formulations via ingestion (including NGT, GT, and OGT).

First Pass Effect

When blood containing the absorbed drug passes through the liver, which can deactivate a substantial amount of the drug and decrease its bioavailability.

Bioavailability

The percentage of a dose that reaches the systemic circulation.

Parenteral Injection (SQ/IM)

Subcutaneous and intramuscular administration that can be costly, painful, and cause localized side effects like bruising, redness, bleeding, and swelling.

Intravenous (IV) Route

Offers complete bioavailability and an immediate effect as drugs are fully available to tissues after administration into the bloodstream.

Absorption

The movement of a medication from its site of administration to the bloodstream.

Absorption Rate vs. Amount

The rate determines the onset of the medication, while the amount determines the intensity.

Distribution

The transportation of medications by bodily fluids to the site of action, affected by circulation and cell membrane permeability.

Metabolism

The biotransformation of medications into less active forms by enzymes, primarily occurring in the liver.

Excretion

The elimination of medications from the body primarily through the kidneys, but also through the lungs, liver, and bowels.

Oral Route Pattern of Absorption

Highly variable based on GI pH and the presence of food.

Intravenous Absorption Barrier

There are no barriers to absorption with immediate and complete entry into the blood.