A patient with hypoalbuminemia (low blood albumin) will show what change in the pharmacokinetics of highly protein-bound drugs?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: Increased free drug concentration
With fewer albumin binding sites available, a larger fraction of the drug remains free in the plasma. This can lead to increased pharmacological effects and a higher risk of toxicity at 'normal' total drug doses.
Keep practicing
More Drug Distribution questions
- Which organ receives the fastest distribution of drug immediately after it enters the systemic circulation?
- What is the primary role of P-glycoprotein in the blood-brain barrier?
- If a drug has a Volume of Distribution of 15 Liters, it is likely distributed in which body compartments?
- Which of the following describes the 'Volume of Distribution' (Vd) of a drug?
- Which plasma protein is the most significant binder for acidic drugs like Warfarin and Salicylates?
- A drug with an extremely high Volume of Distribution (Vd > 40 L/70kg) typically indicates that: