Introduction to Pharmacology - Pharmacokinetics 1

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

The process of a drug moving from its administration site into the bloodstream.

Factors that influence a drug's rate and extent of absorption, including drug properties, formulation, and patient characteristics.

Characteristics of a drug that affect its absorption, such as molecular weight, lipophilicity, and solubility.

The way a drug is prepared for administration, including its dosage form, excipients, and release mechanisms.

The molecular weight of a drug influences its absorption, with smaller molecules being absorbed more readily.

The ability of a drug to dissolve in fats or lipids, which affects its ability to cross cell membranes.

The ability of a drug to dissolve in a solvent, especially water, which is important for absorption.

The degree to which a drug is ionized (charged) or non-ionized (uncharged), which affects its ability to cross cell membranes.

The pH at which a drug is 50% ionized and 50% non-ionized, which is important for determining its absorption.

Acidic drugs have a higher ionization in basic environments, while basic drugs have a higher ionization in acidic environments.

The pH difference between the acidic stomach and the basic intestine creates a 'trap' for acidic drugs like aspirin.

Modifying the pH of urine can affect drug excretion, either by increasing or decreasing the drug's ionization.

Alkalinizing urine helps excrete acidic drugs like aspirin.

Acidifying urine helps excrete basic drugs like amphetamines.

The inactive ingredients that help formulate a drug, such as fillers, binders, and disintegrants.

A solid dosage form that disintegrates and dissolves in the body, releasing the active drug.

Tablets that are designed to release the drug gradually over a longer period of time.

Capsules that contain granules or beads that slowly release the drug, providing a prolonged effect.

Drugs designed to have a longer duration of action, often requiring less frequent administration.

The peak level of a drug in the body is lower with long-acting formulations due to their gradual release.

Long-acting drugs promote better adherence to medication schedules.

By extending the duration of drug action, long-acting formulations can reduce the frequency of adverse effects.

Strategies to prolong the action of a drug, such as increasing its molecular weight, using an oily preparation, or employing sustained-release formulations.

Adding a vasoconstrictor to local anesthetics can slow their absorption and prolong their effect.