Case Studies
(LO 2-3) A patient asks you what things affect the excretion of drugs. What should you tell this patient? _____________________________________________________________________________
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Increase fluids Avoid taking laxatives because they speed up the drug excretion Improper diet and lack of exercise slow drug excretion After general anesthesia, coughing and deep breathing help eliminate the anesthesia more quickly Keep the skin clean to avoid irritation from drugs eliminated through the sweat glands Chew gum or suck hard candy, such as lemon drops, to decrease the unpleasant effects of drugs eliminated through the saliva If pregnant, discuss all drugs including over-the-counter drugs with their physicians to avoid the possible risk to the fetus