Question

In plasma drug concentration versus time graph as shown in the picture, what should be the correct option for the marked place?

(a) Maximum safe concentration

(b) Minimum effective concentration

(c) Therapeutic range

(d) Onset of action

This question was posed to me in final exam.

My doubt stems from Pharmacokinetic in division Pharmacokinetic Drug Interactions & Basic Considerations of Drug Biotechnology

Answer 1

Right option is (b) Minimum effective concentration

To explain I would say: This graph is plasma drug concentration versus time curve obtained after single oral dosage of a drug. Minimum effective concentration is the minimum concentration of the drug in plasma which is necessary to produce a therapeutic effect. It also says about the minimum concentration of drug at the receptor site to elicit the desired pharmacological response.