Prentice Ch 17 - Pharmacology, Drugs, and Sports

Pharmacology

The study of drugs and their origin, nature, properties, and effects on living organisms.

Drug

A chemical agent used in the prevention, treatment, or diagnosis of disease.

Pharmacokinetics

The method by which drugs are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and eliminated.

Drug Vehicle

The substance in which a drug is transported.

Bioavailability

How completely a particular drug is absorbed in the system.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of plasma in which a drug is dissolved.

Efficacy

A drug's capability of producing a specific therapeutic effect.

Potency

The dose of a drug required to produce a desired therapeutic effect.

Biotransformation

Transforming a drug so that it can be metabolized.

Metabolism

Turning a drug into a water-soluble compound that can be excreted.

Half-Life

The rate at which a drug disappears from the body through metabolism, excretion, or both.

Steady-state

When the amount of drug taken is equal to the amount that is excreted.

Bioequivalent Drugs

Drugs that have similar biological effects.

Pharmacodynamics

Refers to the actions or effects of a drug on the body.

Inhalation

Is a means of bringing medication or substances to the respiratory tract.

Intradermal

Into the skin.

Subcutaneous

Under the cutaneous tissues.

Intramuscular

Into the muscle tissue.

Intravenous

Into a vein.

Ergogenic Acid

A term used to describe any method, legal or illegal, used to enhance athletic performance.