[Cancer chemotherapy in patients older than 75 years old--from the aspect of clinical pharmacology]

Abstract

A review concerning cancer chemotherapy in older patients from the aspect of clinical pharmacology was performed. Age-related physiological changes, comorbid disease, polypharmacy, and social issues are major problems in older patients with cancer. Pharmacokinetics of anticancer agents change according to physiological changes, and distribution, metabolism and excretion may change. Resistance to anticancer agents is more common. Side effects are more severe and frequent because of age-related physiological changes and comorbid disease. Since the interindividual difference is large in the elderly, the individual dose of anticancer agents must be determined especially for patients older than 75 years old.