Minimum effective concentration (MEC)

Definition

Minimum Effective Concentration (MEC) is the lowest concentration of a drug in the bloodstream that produces the desired therapeutic effect. It sets the baseline for effective dosing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. MEC is critical for determining the correct dosage and frequency of drug administration.
2. Below the MEC, a drug will not produce any therapeutic effects.
3. MEC varies between different drugs and patient populations due to factors like age, weight, and kidney function.
4. Monitoring drug levels to stay above MEC can prevent subtherapeutic outcomes and ensure efficacy.
5. Achieving and maintaining MEC involves understanding pharmacokinetics, including absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.

Review Questions

• Why is it important to maintain a drug concentration above the Minimum Effective Concentration?
• What factors can influence an individual's Minimum Effective Concentration for a given drug?
• How does understanding MEC help in preventing subtherapeutic outcomes?

Related terms

Therapeutic Range: The concentration range between the minimum effective concentration (MEC) and the minimum toxic concentration (MTC).

Pharmacokinetics:

The study of how drugs move through the body during absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.

Half-Life:

The time required for the concentration of a drug in the bloodstream to decrease by half.