Pharmacology

Definition

Pharmacology is the branch of medicine that focuses on the study of drugs and their effects on the human body. It encompasses the understanding, development, and use of medications for therapeutic purposes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pharmacology includes both pharmacokinetics (how the body processes a drug) and pharmacodynamics (how a drug affects the body).
2. Nurses must understand drug interactions to prevent adverse effects in patients with compromised gut health.
3. Many drugs are metabolized in the liver but can affect gut health through mechanisms involving gut flora.
4. Proper medication management is crucial for promoting gut health, especially in patients with digestive disorders.
5. Nutrient absorption can be influenced by drugs, making knowledge of pharmacology essential for dietary planning in nursing care.

Review Questions

• What are the two main subfields of pharmacology?
• Why is it important for nurses to understand drug interactions concerning gut health?
• How can medications impact nutrient absorption in patients with digestive issues?

Related terms

Pharmacokinetics: The study of how a drug is absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted by the body

Pharmacodynamics: The study of how a drug interacts with its biological target and its physiological effects

Drug Interaction: A situation where one drug affects the activity of another when both are administered together