**Core Concept**
The concept of drug side effects arises from the interactions of a drug with non-target molecules, leading to unwanted effects. This is known as the "receptor occupancy" principle, where the drug binds to unintended receptors, causing side effects.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the concept of "therapeutic index" (TI), which is a measure of a drug's safety. A high therapeutic index indicates that a drug has a wide margin between its effective dose and toxic dose, thereby minimizing side effects. This is achieved by reducing the interaction of the drug with non-target molecules. The therapeutic index is often expressed as a ratio of the dose that produces a toxic effect (TD50) to the dose that produces an effective effect (ED50).
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** High potency is not directly related to minimizing side effects, although it may increase the risk of toxicity at higher doses.
**Option B:** High lipid solubility can increase the distribution of a drug to non-target sites, potentially increasing side effects.
**Option C:** High water solubility may reduce the absorption of a drug, but it does not directly minimize side effects.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A high therapeutic index is a desirable property of a drug, indicating its safety and efficacy. It is often determined by comparing the dose-response curves of a drug in animals and humans.
**Correct Answer: D. High therapeutic index.
Free Medical MCQs Β· NEET PG Β· USMLE Β· AIIMS
Access thousands of free MCQs, ebooks and daily exams.
By signing in you agree to our Privacy Policy.