Pharmacology
The science of medications and their effects on the body
Definition
Pharmacology is the scientific study of drugs, including their composition, biochemical effects (pharmacodynamics), movement through the body (pharmacokinetics), therapeutic uses, and adverse effects.
Key Pharmacology Concepts
- Pharmacokinetics: Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion (ADME).
- Pharmacodynamics: Drug-receptor interactions, agonism, antagonism.
- Therapeutic range: Concentration window for effective and safe use.
- Half-life: Time for 50% drug elimination.
- Drug interactions: Pharmacokinetic (CYP450) or pharmacodynamic.
Nursing Responsibilities
Apply Five Rights (Right patient, drug, dose, route, time); plus Right reason, documentation, response, refusal, education. Verify orders, educate patients, monitor effects and adverse reactions, teach about drug-food-drug interactions.
NCLEX Relevance
Pharmacology represents 15 to 20% of the NCLEX. Prioritize high-alert medications and their antidotes.