Your patient has been identified as a poor metabolizer of a drug that has just been ordered, and the drug is formulated as an active compound. What will be the mostlikely result if you give this active drug at the standard dose?
A)No therapeutic response
B)Increased adverse reactions and possible toxicity
C)Therapeutic response as expected in the general population
D)Drug inactivation occurs more rapidly, and the therapeutic response is limited.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Active-compound drugs work as soon as they enter the bloodstream, without further processing. They must undergo metabolism to be made ready for elimination. In people who are poor metabolizers, the blood drug levels are higher, and the drug remains active much longer. As a result, the patient is at higher risk for continued drug actions, including adverse effects and toxic responses. This person would need lower drug doses given less frequently.

Your Patient Has Been Identified as a Poor Metabolizer of a Drug