Drug metabolism: the body's defense against chemical attack

Drug metabolism, using body enzymes, and clinical and industrial implications are discussed. The cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (CYPs) are largely repsonsible for drug oxidation. The organic chemist can play a role in the synthesis of drug substrates, metabolites and inhibitors needed for experimental studies. Molecular modeling, paracetamol, terfenadine, dietary flavonoids, such as those found in grapefruit, and morphine-6-glucuronide are discussed. Future implications for medicinal chemists are considered.