Bioavailability ~25 % after first‑pass hepatic metabolism.
Half‑life 12–24 h (steady‑state reached in ~1 week).
Peak Plasma Concentration 2–4 h post‑dose.
Metabolism CYP3A4, UGTs → glucuronide conjugates.
Excretion Primarily fecal; minor renal (~5 %).
Key Points for Pharmacokinetic Analysis
Steady‑State Concentration (Css):
[ Css = \fracF \times DoseCl ] - Where \(F\) is bioavailability, \(Cl\) is clearance.
Half‑Life (t½):
[ t_1/2 = \frac0.693 \times V_dCl ]
Volume of Distribution (Vd):
[ V_d = \fracC_0\textPlasma concentration at time 0 ]
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Slide 5 – Clinical Pharmacology and Evidence
Key Findings from Systematic Reviews
Efficacy:
- Significant reduction in pain scores for osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). - Effect sizes moderate to large in trials with ≥ 8 weeks duration.
Safety Profile:
- Lower incidence of gastrointestinal events compared with NSAIDs. - Minimal systemic side effects; occasional dizziness or headache.
Patient Satisfaction:
- Higher adherence rates due to reduced dosing frequency and favorable taste.
Meta‑Analysis Results (Simplified)
Outcome Effect Size (SMD) CI p‑value
Pain reduction (OA) -0.65 (-0.78, -0.52) <0.001
GI side effects (NSAID vs P) 1.20 (1.05, 1.36) <0.001
Interpretation: Patients using the new drug experience significantly greater pain relief and fewer gastrointestinal adverse events compared to traditional NSAIDs.
Public Health Benefit: Provide evidence on whether a readily available dietary supplement can reduce severity or duration of COVID‑19 symptoms among adults with mild to moderate disease.
Scientific Contribution: Clarify the mechanistic role of glutathione‑related pathways in SARS‑CoV‑2 infection and recovery, guiding future therapeutic development.
Policy Relevance: Inform clinical guidelines on adjunctive nutritional support during pandemics.