A nurse is reviewing pharmacokinetic principles. Which of the following factors most significantly affects the distribution of drugs in the body?
The Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System
Renal function
Gastric pH
Blood flow
The Correct Answer is D
A. The Cytochrome P-450 Enzyme System: This system plays a major role in drug metabolism, particularly in the liver, but it does not significantly affect drug distribution. Its primary influence is on the biotransformation of drugs into active or inactive metabolites.
B. Renal function: Renal function primarily affects drug excretion. Impaired kidney function can lead to drug accumulation and toxicity but has a minimal direct effect on the distribution of drugs throughout tissues and organs.
C. Gastric pH: Gastric pH influences drug absorption in the gastrointestinal tract, especially for pH-sensitive drugs. However, it plays little to no role in the actual distribution of the drug once it enters systemic circulation.
D. Blood flow: Blood flow is the most significant factor affecting drug distribution. Highly perfused organs like the brain, liver, and kidneys receive drugs more quickly and in higher concentrations than poorly perfused tissues, influencing the onset and intensity of drug action.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["0.5"]
Explanation
Desired dose = 250 mg
The medication label for Chlorzoxazone Tablets, USP states: 500 mg per tablet.
- Determine the number of tablets needed:
Number of tablets = Desired dose / Dose per tablet
= 250 mg / 500 mg/tablet
= 0.5 tablet
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "You should abruptly stop taking this medication if you experience nausea.": Abrupt discontinuation of Carbidopa/Levodopa can lead to serious complications such as neuroleptic malignant-like syndrome. Nausea is a common early side effect and should be reported, not used as a reason to stop the medication suddenly.
B. "This medication may cause involuntary movements as a side effect.": Long-term use of Carbidopa/Levodopa can lead to dyskinesias, which are involuntary, erratic movements. These occur due to fluctuating dopamine levels and are a common motor complication in advanced Parkinson's disease.
C. "You should take this medication with a high-protein meal to enhance absorption.": High-protein meals can actually interfere with Levodopa absorption because dietary amino acids compete with the drug for transport across the blood-brain barrier. Protein intake should be evenly distributed throughout the day.
D. "This medication will improve your memory and cognitive function.": Carbidopa/Levodopa is primarily used to treat motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease by replenishing dopamine. It has minimal impact on cognitive symptoms and is not indicated for memory enhancement.
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