Example of a Prodrug
Which drug is an example of a prodrug that gets converted to its active form in the body?
- Morphine → inactive
- Procaine → inactive
- Prontosil → Sulfanilamide — Correct Answer
- Parathion → Paraoxon
Explanation:
Correct Answer: Prontosil → Sulfanilamide
Prontosil is an inactive drug (prodrug) that is converted to the active form sulfanilamide by azo reduction in the body. This is the classic example of a prodrug.
Types of Biotransformation Sequelae
- Inactivation: Morphine, chloramphenicol, procaine → inactive metabolites.
- Active metabolite formation: Enrofloxacin → ciprofloxacin; Phenylbutazone → oxyphenbutazone; Aspirin → salicylic acid.
- Prodrug (inactive → active): Hetacillin → ampicillin; Prontosil → sulfanilamide.
- Lethal synthesis (inactive/less active → more toxic): Parathion → paraoxon; Fluoroacetic acid → fluorocitrate.
📚 About this Topic — Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology
This multiple choice question is from Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, Veterinary Science. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology to strengthen your preparation.
