Introduction To Pharmacokinetics provides an introduction to the following pharmacokinetic parameters:

• Half-Life (t_1/2)
• Elimination Rate Constant (k)
• Area Under The Concentration-Time Curve (AUC)
• Total Body Clearance (TBC)
• Volume Of Distribution (V_d)
• Bioavailability (F)
• Absorption Rate Constant (k_a)

For each parameter, the package includes (as applicable):

• Information about what the parameter is
• The units and symbol used for the parameter
• A simulation in which the user can see the effect of changing the value of the parameter
• Information about why it is useful to know the parameter
• Information about how to find the parameter using a semilogarithmic graph of concentration against time
• Useful equations involving the parameter

The package uses semilogarithmic graphs to discuss the effects of parameters and to calculate the value of parameters. The package therefore also covers methods which will help the user to interpret the graphs correctly. The methods covered are:

• How to plot a semilogarthimic graph
• The method of residuals
• The trapezoidal rule

The package also covers some general terminology that the user might encounter when reading about pharmacokinetics, including the terms first order elimination, nonlinear elimination and one and two compartment models.

Once the user is familiar with the individual parameters, the user can practise calculating pharmacokinetic parameters using the concentration-time data found for a dose of drug, given via one of three methods:

• A single intravenous bolus
• A single short IV infusion
• A single oral dose

As a user works through each exercise, the user will be able to see that parameters are linked together and how finding the value of one parameter can enable the user to go on and find the values of further parameters.

CONTENTS OF THE PACKAGE

Introduction To Pharmacokinetics consists of the following sections and activities:

Section 1: General Information

• Introduction
• Plotting On A Semilogarithmic Graph
• Method Of Residuals
• The Trapezoidal Rule
• Steady State, Models And Other Terminology

Section 2: Pharmacokinetic Parameters

• Half-Life (t_1/2)
• Elimination Rate Constant (k)
• Area Under The Concentration-Time Curve (AUC)
• Total Body Clearance (TBC)
• Volume Of Distribution (V_d)
• Bioavailability (F)
• First Order Absorption Rate Constant (k_a)

 Section 3: Routes Of Administration – Exercises

• IV Bolus Dosing Exercise
• Single Short IV Infusion Exercise
• Oral Dosing Exercise