Peak and trough drug levels are determined in order to:

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The peak drug level in plasma is the maximum concentration of the drug in the body after drug administration. It usually occurs shortly after a drug is administered. The peak level correlates with drug efficacy. A drug given in an insufficient dosage to achieve a therapeutic plasma level will not effectively treat the patient's illness. After peak drug levels are achieved, drug levels decline, until they reach a trough. This is the lowest level of a drug in plasma before the next dose of the medication is given. Trough drug levels correlate with drug toxicity. A drug that is not adequately removed from the plasma between administrations can build up excessively in the body and cause side effects. When trough levels are too high, the time between drug doses is increased. When peak drug levels are not high enough, the dose of the drug is increased. Drugs that are commonly monitored for peak and trough levels include the aminoglycoside antibiotics, gentamicin or vancomycin.

Peak and Trough Drug Levels Are Determined in Order To