farmacocinéticas

Farmacocinética describes what the body does to a drug. It encompasses the processes of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME). Absorption is the movement of a drug from its administration site into the bloodstream. This can occur through various routes, such as oral, intravenous, or intramuscular. The rate and extent of absorption are influenced by factors like drug formulation, route of administration, and physiological conditions.

Distribution refers to the reversible transfer of a drug from one location in the body to another. Once in the bloodstream, drugs can travel to different tissues and organs. Factors such as blood flow, tissue permeability, and protein binding affect how a drug is distributed. Some drugs may accumulate in certain tissues, while others remain primarily in the bloodstream.

Metabolism, also known as biotransformation, is the chemical alteration of a drug by the body. This process, primarily occurring in the liver, converts drugs into more water-soluble compounds, facilitating their elimination. Enzymes, particularly those in the cytochrome P450 system, play a crucial role in drug metabolism. Metabolism can activate prodrugs, inactivate active drugs, or produce active or toxic metabolites.

Excretion is the irreversible removal of drugs and their metabolites from the body. The kidneys are the primary organs of excretion, eliminating drugs in urine. Other routes of excretion include the bile, feces, and lungs. The rate of excretion determines how long a drug remains in the body and its duration of action. Understanding these pharmacokinetic principles is essential for determining appropriate drug dosages, dosing intervals, and predicting potential drug interactions, ultimately optimizing therapeutic outcomes and minimizing adverse effects.