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Hepatic Enzyme Induction

Meaning

Hepatic enzyme induction is a pharmacological and physiological process where the activity or concentration of drug-metabolizing enzymes, predominantly those within the cytochrome P450 (CYP450) family located in the liver (hepatic) cells, is increased by exposure to certain substances. This increase leads to a faster metabolic clearance rate for both exogenous compounds, like medications, and endogenous substances, including steroid hormones. The clinical significance lies in the potential for altered hormone half-lives and reduced therapeutic efficacy of co-administered drugs. Understanding this process is critical for precise hormonal dosing.