Regarding excretion, fentanyl is excreted predominantly through which route?

Prepare for the Anesthesia Pharm Exam 1 with our interactive quizzes. Study with detailed explanations and multiple-choice questions to ensure success on your examination day!

Multiple Choice

Regarding excretion, fentanyl is excreted predominantly through which route?

Explanation:
Fentanyl is cleared mainly through hepatic metabolism to norfentanyl, and these metabolites are then excreted by the kidneys into urine. Because the metabolites are water-soluble, renal excretion becomes the predominant route. Biliary excretion and fecal routes exist to a much smaller extent, and only trace amounts of unchanged fentanyl appear in urine. This is why urine is the primary excretion pathway, and it also helps explain why renal impairment can prolong effects due to slower elimination of metabolites.

Fentanyl is cleared mainly through hepatic metabolism to norfentanyl, and these metabolites are then excreted by the kidneys into urine. Because the metabolites are water-soluble, renal excretion becomes the predominant route. Biliary excretion and fecal routes exist to a much smaller extent, and only trace amounts of unchanged fentanyl appear in urine. This is why urine is the primary excretion pathway, and it also helps explain why renal impairment can prolong effects due to slower elimination of metabolites.

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