Pediatric pharmacokinetics involves the study of how drugs are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted in children, recognizing that these processes differ significantly from adults due to developmental changes. Understanding these differences is crucial for determining appropriate drug dosages and ensuring safety and efficacy in pediatric patients.

Pediatric Pharmacokinetics

Drug absorption is the process by which a drug enters the bloodstream from its site of administration, which is crucial for its therapeutic effectiveness. Factors such as drug formulation, route of administration, and physiological conditions can significantly influence the rate and extent of absorption.

Drug Absorption

Drug distribution refers to the process by which a drug is dispersed throughout the body’s tissues and fluids after entering the systemic circulation. This distribution is influenced by factors such as blood flow, tissue permeability, and the drug's affinity for tissue proteins and lipids.

Drug Distribution

Drug metabolism is the biochemical modification of pharmaceutical substances by living organisms, typically through specialized enzymatic systems. This process determines the duration and intensity of a drug's pharmacological action and is crucial for drug clearance from the body.

Drug Metabolism

Drug excretion is the process by which drugs and their metabolites are eliminated from the body, primarily through the kidneys in urine, but also via bile, sweat, saliva, and exhalation. Efficient excretion is crucial for maintaining appropriate drug levels and preventing toxicity, with factors such as renal function, age, and drug properties influencing the rate and route of excretion.

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