Drug interactions in the organism

Written by Dudutz Gyöngyi, Kincses Ajtay Mária

Drug interactions are produced as a result of simultaneous administration at the same patient of more than one drug and/or food, beverage, nutriceutical and other chemical substances. In the present study we have followed the interactions produced during the pharmacokinetic phase (pharmacokinetic interactions): gastrointestinal absorption, transport and distribution, metabolization and elimination. The most important interactions are produced at the level of trans-membrane transport processes (ABC transporters - ATP-binding cassette) as well as at the level of drug metabolization by the cytochrome P450 system. Interactions are influenced by the pharmacogenetic characteristics involved in the processes of transport and metabolism. The understanding of the mechanisms of interactions in details is necessary. Comprehensive international databases of interactions are necessary for the individualization of drug therapies and to avoid the concomitant use of drugs with undesired clinical consequences.

 

Keywords: drug interactions, ABC transporters, cytochrome P450

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