Why is the central nervous system (CNS) distribution of many drugs limited despite the brain receiving 15% of cardiac output?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: The presence of the Blood-Brain Barrier
Even with high perfusion, the tight junctions of the BBB endothelial cells and the efflux activity of P-glycoprotein prevent many polar or large molecules from entering the brain parenchyma.
Keep practicing
More Drug Distribution questions
- Tetracycline antibiotics have a high affinity for which of the following, leading to sequestration in teeth and bones?
- A patient with hypoalbuminemia (low blood albumin) will show what change in the pharmacokinetics of highly protein-bound drugs?
- 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?