Medication - More terms

3 important questions on Medication - More terms

What is are Adverse Drug Reactions?

ADR- the harm caused by a drug at normal doses, during normal use. Not the same as an allergy which is an ADR mediated by an immune response.

What's the difference between drugs and medicines?

Drugs are substances that when taken into the body affect the structure or function of the organism
Medicines are drugs used in the treatment, diagnosis or prevention of disease. All medicines need a product licence to indicate they have been licenced.

What is First Pass Metabolism?


The drug is swallowed makes its way to the stomach and small intestine where it is absorbed into the bloodstream but Instead of directly entering the general circulation, the drug-rich blood from the gastrointestinal tract is transported to the liver first through the portal vein. In the liver, enzymes metabolize (break down) the drug. This can result in chemical changes to the drug's structure, often reducing its concentration and altering its properties. Some drugs may be extensively metabolized during this first pass through the liver.

The question on the page originate from the summary of the following study material:

  • A unique study and practice tool
  • Never study anything twice again
  • Get the grades you hope for
  • 100% sure, 100% understanding
Remember faster, study better. Scientifically proven.
Trustpilot Logo