Chapter 22, Problem 85A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The advantages of using a lower dose of medication to get the similar results need to be explained.

Concept introduction:

The drug concentration is defined as the amount of drug in given volume of the blood plasma which is measured in ng per mL.

Explanation of Solution

The lower dose of medication helps patients to find the best dose for them. It is also cost effective. It can help in avoiding the interaction of most clinically relevant drug. If a drug is given to patient at very low dose (quarter of the normal dose) and the drug causes doubling of the starting drug concentration, the increased concentration will be still less than the typical starting doses.

Also, if one half of the dosage is taken by the patient, there is a low risk for the patient as the drug concentration will be half of the initial value. The side effects of the drugs can be controlled as they will not be high.