Hepatic Dosing Adjustment
Definition
Modification of drug dose for patients with liver disease, as the liver is the primary site of drug metabolism. Unlike renal adjustment, hepatic adjustment is less formulaic because liver function tests (ALT, AST) don't directly correlate with metabolic capacity. The Child-Pugh score is used to guide dosing.
Example
For a patient with Child-Pugh Class C cirrhosis, the starting dose of most hepatically metabolized drugs should be reduced by 50% or more.
Related Terms
Mentioned in Guides
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