Adverse Drug Reactions and Interactions · USMLE Step 1

In older adults, why is the risk of adverse drug reactions higher than in younger adults?

  1. Increased hepatic CYP enzyme metabolism
  2. Improved renal drug clearance capacity
  3. Organ decline combined with polypharmacy
  4. Better inherent tolerance to drugs
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Correct answer: Organ decline combined with polypharmacy

Elderly patients often have impaired hepatic or renal function and take multiple drugs (polypharmacy), both of which increase the probability of ADRs and interactions.

Difficulty: Medium Question 15 of 19

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