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The aging process significantly influences medication metabolism, and slowing down metabolism is a well-documented change that occurs in older adults. As people age, various physiological changes take place, including alterations in body composition, organ function, and the ability of the liver and kidneys to process medications.

One of the key factors is the decline in liver function, which is crucial for the biotransformation of many drugs. The liver's capacity to metabolize substances decreases with age, leading to slower drug clearance from the body. Additionally, kidney function tends to decline, which impacts the excretion of medications that are primarily eliminated by renal pathways.

These metabolic changes can result in an increased half-life of medications, meaning they may stay in the body longer than they would in a younger individual, potentially leading to an accumulation of the drug and an increased risk of side effects or toxicity. Therefore, understanding that the aging process slows down metabolism is fundamental for healthcare providers in order to adjust dosages accordingly and provide safer, more effective medication management for older adults.