In the metabolism of Acetaminophen (Paracetamol), which pathway becomes overloaded during an overdose, leading to hepatotoxicity?
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Correct answer: Glucuronidation and sulfation
At normal doses, Acetaminophen is mostly metabolized via glucuronidation and sulfation. In an overdose, these pathways saturate, forcing more drug through the CYP450 pathway to form the toxic metabolite NAPQI.
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