Pharmacology and Pharmacodynamics

The process through which the xenobiotic enters the bloodstream to circulate in the body.

The process through which the xenobiotic moves from the bloodstream to the cells around the body to cause a physiological effect.

The process through which the xenobiotic is removed from the body by expulsion via urine, feces, sweat, breath, etc.

A field of forensics that applies the scientific methods and principles practiced in the field of toxicology to matters related to the law.

The portion of the drug molecule that targets specific receptor(s).

A chemical reaction in the body in which the xenobiotic is modified to facilitate its elimination.

The study of how drugs affect the body and how the body reacts.

The study of the fate of drugs within the body during all stages of interaction, including absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination.

Study of the therapeutic effects of drugs on the body, including what the body does to the drug (pharmacokinetics) and how the body reacts to the drug (pharmacodynamics).

A type of drug that has the ability to alter the user’s mood, thoughts, and level of consciousness.

Specialized site often present on the cell’s surface or inside the cell, where drugs can bind and start a cascade of chemical reactions resulting in a physiological effect.

The means by which the drug is taken or administered. Examples include, but are not limited to, oral, injection, smoke, topical, and sublingual.

A field of science that studies the adverse effects of drugs or other xenobiotics on the human body.

A chemical substance found at a level not naturally produced by or not expected to be found in an organism, such as a drug, pesticide, and alcohol.