What effect does enzyme induction have on drug metabolism?

Enzyme induction is a process whereby certain substances, such as drugs or environmental chemicals, enhance the activity of specific enzymes responsible for drug metabolism. This typically occurs through the upregulation of enzyme synthesis, leading to an increased number of active enzymes that can metabolize drugs more effectively. As a result, the metabolic clearance of drugs is elevated, meaning that drugs are broken down and eliminated from the body more rapidly.

This increase in metabolic activity can have significant implications for pharmacotherapy. For instance, if a drug is metabolized more quickly due to enzyme induction, its effectiveness may be reduced, as the concentration in the bloodstream might fall below therapeutic levels sooner than expected. Therefore, understanding enzyme induction is crucial for predicting drug interactions and adjusting dosage regimens to maintain effective drug levels in patients.