The effect of developmental changes in adolescence on drug disposition.

Biological and behavioral change occurs throughout the lifespan. The nature and rapidity of change during adolescence is striking. The effects of rapid growth, sexual maturation, and psychological reorganization on pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics must be considered during studies on teenagers. It is important to consider the large amount of variability in the timing of normal developmental events. The concept of developmental rather than chronological age should be considered. Measurement of organismic and behavioral variables includes whole organism measures such as body height, weight, surface area, body mass index, self-concept, sexual identity/role, and many other behavioral measures. Pubertal development may be assessed by sexual maturity ratings. Bone age may be a particularly useful estimate of developmental status. Biochemical measures include gonadotropin, sex steroids, other hormonal or hormone receptor values.