Pharmacokinetics of drug overdose

Abstract

Drugs ingested in overdose can have altered pharmacokinetics of absorption, distribution, and elimination. The pathophysiologic consequences of overdose can also change a drug's pharmacokinetic properties. Many toxicologic interventions are based on modifying the drug's pharmacokinetics (e.g., impairing absorption or enhancing elimination). Serum drug monitoring, even with its limitations, does have a role in managing the patient who has taken an overdose.