Medikament

Medikament is a chemical or biological substance used for the diagnosis, treatment, cure, mitigation, or prevention of disease, or to affect physiological function. In pharmacology and medicine, a medicament can range from simple vitamins to complex biologics. In many languages, including German, the term denotes a medicine or pharmaceutical drug, while "drug" can be used more broadly. A medicament consists of an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) that produces the therapeutic effect, and excipients that aid formulation, stability, and delivery.

Formulations and administration: dosage forms include tablets, capsules, liquids for oral use, injectables, topical preparations, inhalers, and transdermal patches. The route of administration influences absorption and pharmacokinetics, including distribution, metabolism, and excretion.

Regulation and safety: the development and approval of medicaments are governed by national and international authorities (for example, the European Medicines Agency and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration). Evidence from preclinical studies and phased clinical trials (phases I–III) is required, followed by post-marketing pharmacovigilance. Risks such as adverse effects, contraindications, and drug interactions must be assessed.

Access and use: some medicaments require a prescription, while others are offered over-the-counter. Proper use, dosing, and monitoring are essential to maximize benefit and minimize harm. Antimicrobials illustrate the importance of stewardship to prevent resistance.

History and scope: medicines have progressed from traditional remedies to modern molecular drugs, monoclonal antibodies, and gene therapies. Ongoing research seeks to improve efficacy, safety, and personalization of treatment.