How would the action and effect of a drug that is metabolized by the liver be affected in a client with severe cirrhosis of the liver?

How would the action and effect of a drug that is metabolized by the liver be affected in a client with severe cirrhosis of the liver?

• A. The rate of excretion of the drug will increase.
• B. The duration of the action of the drug will decrease.
• C. The action and effects of the drug on the body will be prolonged.
• D. The action and effects of the drug on the body will be blocked—hence no effect.

Answer: (C)

When the liver is severely damaged, its ability to metabolize drugs diminishes. Many drugs rely on hepatic enzymes to convert them into inactive forms for elimination. If metabolism slows, the drug stays in the bloodstream longer, its concentration can rise, and its effects last longer. This also means a higher risk of toxicity, so dosing often needs to be reduced or the interval between doses extended. So the action and effects of a liver-metabolized drug are prolonged in severe cirrhosis, rather than being blocked or occurring more quickly.

When the liver is severely damaged, its ability to metabolize drugs diminishes. Many drugs rely on hepatic enzymes to convert them into inactive forms for elimination. If metabolism slows, the drug stays in the bloodstream longer, its concentration can rise, and its effects last longer. This also means a higher risk of toxicity, so dosing often needs to be reduced or the interval between doses extended.

So the action and effects of a liver-metabolized drug are prolonged in severe cirrhosis, rather than being blocked or occurring more quickly.