Pharmacology

This is the branch of medical science that studies drugs and their effects on the body. It involves understanding how medications work, how they are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted, as well as their therapeutic uses and potential side effects. Pharmacology is divided into two main areas:

• Pharmacokinetics – what the body does to the drug (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion).
• Pharmacodynamics – what the drug does to the body (mechanism of action, effects).

Pharmacologists play a vital role in the development of new drugs, ensuring their safety and effectiveness before they are approved for use. This field is essential for rational prescribing, optimizing treatment, and minimizing adverse effects. It also contributes to advancements in personalized medicine and public health.