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PK/PD (Pharmacokinetics/Pharmacodynamics)

PK/PD stands for Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics, two key areas in understanding how medicines work. Pharmacokinetics (PK) describes how the body absorbs, distributes, metabolizes, and eliminates a drug over time—essentially, what the body does to the drug. Pharmacodynamics (PD) explains how the drug affects the body, including the mechanism of action and the intensity of its effects. Together, PK/PD helps determine the right dosage and timing to maximize effectiveness while minimizing side effects, guiding healthcare professionals in optimizing treatment plans for patients.