Cruciferous vegetables like cabbage may have what effect on the metabolism of some drugs?

Cruciferous vegetables, such as cabbage, are known to contain compounds that can influence the metabolism of certain drugs. One prominent group of these compounds is glucosinolates, which can be metabolized into bioactive products that affect the enzymes responsible for drug metabolism, particularly those in the cytochrome P450 family.

When these vegetables are consumed, they can potentially induce the activity of these enzymes, leading to a faster metabolism of specific drugs. This increased metabolic rate may reduce the therapeutic effectiveness of some medications, as they may be cleared from the body more quickly than intended. This induction effect can be significant for drugs that follow first-pass metabolism, thus impacting their overall efficacy and safety profile.

This is why the answer noting an increase in drug metabolism due to the consumption of cruciferous vegetables is correct, highlighting the importance of dietary considerations alongside pharmacotherapy.