Pharmacokinetics, Disease, and Equipment Related Factors Impacting Intensive Care Unit Patient Outcomes: Comprehensive Review

Published on: January 2025 Indian Journal of Pharmacy Practice, 2025; 18(3):249-256. Review Article| doi: 10.5530/ijopp.20250209Authors and affiliation (s): Aluri Praneetha1, Manchikanti Hima Sathwika1, Shaik Rahimunnisa1, Perumalla Lokeswari1, Akurathi Dikshitha1, Sunkara Ramya2, Komaragiri Krishna2,* 1Department of Pharmacy Practice, Nirmala College of Pharmacy, Mangalagiri, Atmakur, Andhra Pradesh, INDIA. 2Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy Practice, Vignan’s Foundation for Science, Technology and Research, Vadlamudi, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, INDIA. ABSTRACT In unconscious patients, managing treatment presents significant challenges due to the inability to gauge subjective effects and the complexities of altered pharmacokinetics. Critical illness often modifies drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion, necessitating frequent adjustments in dosing. Additionally, polypharmacy increases the risk of drug interactions, complicating therapy. The absence of patient feedback and the unpredictable nature of drug responses demand meticulous monitoring and individualized treatment plans. Effective management relies on close collaboration among healthcare providers, ongoing therapeutic drug monitoring, and tailored dosing strategies to optimize safety and efficacy. Addressing these issues is crucial for ensuring appropriate and effective drug therapy in this vulnerable population. Keywords: Communications, Intensive care unit, Metabolism, Pharmacokinetics, polypharmacy, Sepsis.