Pharmacokinetics
Pronunciation: /ˌfɑrməkoʊkɪˈnɛtɪks/
The study of how the body processes medications, including absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination.
Full Definition
Pharmacokinetics is the branch of pharmacology that examines how the body affects medications through absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination (ADME). In addiction medicine, understanding pharmacokinetics is crucial for medication-assisted treatment dosing, managing drug interactions, and predicting how substances of abuse will behave in the body. Factors such as liver function, kidney function, age, and genetic variations can significantly affect pharmacokinetics and influence treatment decisions.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from pharmacodynamics, which studies drug effects on the body.
In Context
- "The patient's altered pharmacokinetics due to liver disease required dosage adjustments." — Medical consultation note
- "Understanding opioid pharmacokinetics is essential for safe prescribing practices." — Educational material