Abstract
Pharmacokinetics can be useful to the clinician in the therapeutic management of patients, particularly when there is a distinct relationship between plasma drug concentration and pharmacologic (therapeutic and toxic) effect. An understanding of the pharmacokinetic processes (absorption, distribution, and elimination) for a given drug will allow for a better appreciation of the time course of plasma drug concentrations. Derived pharmacokinetic parameters such as half-life and clearance can be used to target plasma drug concentrations to therapeutic effect. Steady-state concepts are important in designing multiple drug dosing regimens. Specific considerations of the various factors influencing a drug's pharmacokinetic processes will guide drug dosing in order to maintain a target plasma drug concentration. The application of clinical pharmacokinetic principles in therapeutics should be based on the presented concepts herein as well as an appreciation for the disease state and its rational treatment.
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