Which statement about the use of benzodiazepines in the elderly is correct?

The correct statement highlights that all the assertions regarding the use of benzodiazepines in the elderly are accurate. In the context of pharmacology, several factors affect how medications are processed in older adults, particularly benzodiazepines.

Increased volume of distribution is noted because, as patients age, changes in body composition occur, including an increase in body fat and a decrease in lean body mass and total body water. Benzodiazepines, which are lipophilic, tend to accumulate in fat tissue, resulting in a larger volume of distribution. This change can affect the dosage and frequency at which these medications should be administered.

Reduced pharmacodynamic sensitivity refers to the observation that older adults may respond differently to medications due to changes in receptor sensitivity and the overall physiological state. This means that the same dose of a benzodiazepine may lead to a more pronounced effect, or longer-lasting sedation, compared to younger individuals, necessitating cautious dosing to avoid adverse effects.

The elimination half-life of diazepam is increased in elderly patients primarily due to decreased hepatic metabolism and renal function. This leads to prolonged effects of the medication, as it stays in the system for a longer period, which can elevate the risk of accumulation and side effects, particularly sedation and cognitive