What does pharmacodynamics focus on?

Pharmacodynamics is the branch of pharmacology that studies the effects of drugs on biological systems. Specifically, it focuses on how a drug interacts with the body to produce its effects, including the mechanisms of action and the relationship between drug concentration and its therapeutic or toxic effects. This encompasses the physiological and biochemical processes through which drugs exert their influence, such as receptor interactions, signaling pathways, and the resulting physiological responses.

Understanding pharmacodynamics is crucial for veterinary technicians as it helps in determining the appropriate dosages, anticipating side effects, and enhancing the efficacy of drug therapies across different species. It also plays a vital role in tailoring treatments based on individual patient needs.

In contrast, other aspects like drug absorption, distribution, and metabolism are covered by pharmacokinetics, which deals with how the body affects a drug over time. Therefore, while all these processes are important in the overall pharmacological treatment, pharmacodynamics specifically zeroes in on the effects that a drug has on the body.