Age and Fentanyl Pharmacokinetics

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Abstract
Fentanyl pharmacokinetics was compared in two groups of adult patients, one group (n = 5) aged 60 years. Despite equivalent doses of fentanyl (10 μ/kg IV), serum drug concentrations were significantly higher in the older patient group. This was reflected by a prolonged terminal elimination half-life in the elderly compared with the younger patients (945 versus 265 minutes, respectively, p < 0.005). Volumes of the central compartment and volumes of drug distribution were similar in both patient groups. However, drug clearance was markedly decreased in the elderly (265 versus 991 ml/min, p < 0.005). These data suggest that a given dose of fentanyl will be clinically effective for a longer period in older patients than in younger patients.

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