How Does Hepatic Impairment Affect Drug Metabolism?
The liver plays a central role in the metabolism of drugs through processes such as oxidation, reduction, hydrolysis, and conjugation. Hepatic impairment can alter the pharmacokinetics of drugs, leading to altered absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. This can result in increased drug toxicity or decreased therapeutic efficacy. For instance, drugs that undergo extensive hepatic metabolism may accumulate in the body, increasing the risk of adverse effects.
