Therapeutic Drug Monitoring And Toxicology Flashcards
What is therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM)?
A clinical practice that measures specific drug levels in a patient’s bloodstream to optimize therapy.
What is a trough level?
The lowest concentration of a drug in the bloodstream, measured just before the next dose.
What is a peak level?
The highest concentration of a drug in the bloodstream, measured after a dose is administered.
True or False: Therapeutic drug monitoring is only used for antibiotics.
False
Fill in the blank: TDM is primarily used for drugs with a ______ therapeutic index.
narrow
Name one class of drugs commonly monitored through TDM.
Anticonvulsants
What is the primary goal of TDM?
To ensure drug efficacy while minimizing toxicity.
Multiple choice: Which of the following is NOT a reason for TDM? A) Drug interactions B) Patient non-compliance C) Drug formulation D) Assessing side effects
C) Drug formulation
What is the role of a toxicology lab in drug monitoring?
To analyze biological samples for the presence and concentration of drugs or toxins.
True or False: Peak levels are typically measured 30 minutes after drug administration.
False
What does the term ‘drug classification’ refer to?
The categorization of drugs based on their effects, uses, and chemical structure.
Fill in the blank: The therapeutic range is defined as the range of drug concentrations that achieves ______ without causing toxicity.
desired therapeutic effects
What is the significance of measuring both trough and peak levels?
To assess drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination.
Multiple choice: Which of the following drugs is often monitored through TDM? A) Ibuprofen B) Warfarin C) Acetaminophen D) Aspirin
B) Warfarin
True or False: TDM can help in adjusting dosages based on individual patient response.
True
What can a toxicology lab detect?
Illicit drugs, prescription medications, and toxic substances.
Fill in the blank: The ______ is the point at which a drug’s effect is maximized without causing adverse effects.
therapeutic peak
What is pharmacokinetics?
The study of how a drug is absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted in the body.
Multiple choice: Which of the following is a factor that can affect drug levels in TDM? A) Age B) Weight C) Organ function D) All of the above
D) All of the above
What is the purpose of a loading dose?
To quickly achieve therapeutic drug levels in the bloodstream.
True or False: TDM is unnecessary for over-the-counter medications.
True
What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative toxicology testing?
Qualitative testing determines if a substance is present, while quantitative testing measures the concentration of that substance.
Fill in the blank: ______ can lead to altered drug metabolism and require TDM.
Genetic variations
What does the term ‘half-life’ refer to?
The time it takes for the concentration of a drug in the bloodstream to reduce by half.
Multiple choice: Which factor does NOT influence a drug’s half-life? A) Drug formulation B) Patient’s age C) Time of day D) Liver function
C) Time of day
What is the role of pharmacogenomics in TDM?
To personalize drug therapy based on an individual’s genetic makeup.
True or False: TDM is only useful for chronic conditions.
False
What is an adverse drug reaction?
An unwanted or harmful reaction experienced following the administration of a medication.
Fill in the blank: The ______ indicates how much of a drug is available to the target site after administration.
bioavailability
What is a common method used for drug level testing in toxicology labs?
Immunoassay
Multiple choice: Which of the following is a limitation of TDM? A) High costs B) Complexity of testing C) Variability in patient response D) All of the above
D) All of the above
What is the importance of sample timing in TDM?
To ensure accurate measurement of drug levels at the appropriate pharmacokinetic phase.
True or False: TDM can help prevent drug toxicity.
True
