Opioid metabolites

Q: Most opioids are metabolized to their active metabolites via? (select one) 

 A) Liver 
B) Kidney


Answer: A

The objective of this question is to distinguish between two concepts. Most opioids are metabolized by the liver to thier active metabolites. These metabolites are excreted primarily by kidneys. Insufficiency of liver lead to accumulation of parent compound, and insufficiency of kidney can lead to accumulation of active metabolites. Both can result in toxicity but may present with two different manifestations..

#toxicology


References:

1. Smith HS. Opioid metabolism. Mayo Clin Proc. 2009;84(7):613–624. doi:10.1016/S0025-6196(11)60750-7 

 2. Glare PA, Walsh TD. Clinical pharmacokinetics of morphine. Ther Drug Monit 1991; 13:1.