PhD defence N.T. (Naomi) Jessurun

The metabolization of drugs as a factor in the development of adverse drug reactions

When medicines cause side effects, we often assume that the original active substance is responsible for this. However, after ingestion, the active substance is processed (metabolized) by enzymes or attached to polar compounds in order to accelerate its excretion from the body. The original active substance undergoes chemical changes and drug metabolites are formed. These drug metabolites have their own characteristics and can also cause side effects. Recognizing, predicting and preventing these side effects requires knowledge of the metabolism of the parent drug, the formation of metabolites and their effects in the body.

In the thesis of Naomi Jessurun studies are described in which the adverse drug reactions of the active substance of drugs, of the formated metabolite and the possibilities to prevent these adverse drug reactions are investigated. Lung damage can also result from harmful adverse drug reactions of drugs. The advantage of using pharmacogenetics is described in this context. If the metabolite is harmful, efforts can be made to reduce its formation by adding an inhibitor  (phenoconversion). This method of preventing known adverse drug reactions has been applied in a clinical study with promising effects. Improving knowledge of the action of drugs, their metabolites and phenoconversion, together with pharmacogenetics, can contribute to the timely recognition or prevention of unnecessary adverse drug reactions and tailor-made prescribing.

Promotors: Prof.dr. E.P. van Puijenbroek, prof. dr. R.J. van Marum, prof. dr. K. Grootens and Copromotor Dr. H.J. Derijks