Adme is an abbreviation which stands for absorption,
distribution, metabolism and excretion. The abbreviation is usually associated
with pharmacology and pharmacokinetics in general. For many drugs, a human ADME
is a part of the drug developmental half-life program.
Absorption
A compound is taken into the tissue usually via a
bloodstream. Absorption determines the compounds bio viability. If a drug is
poor in absorption, then it must be administered using less desirable methods
such as inhalation.
Distribution
The compound needs to be carried to the site of its effector
usually via the bloodstream. From there onwards it can be distributed into the
muscles and organs. The drug is then subjected to various distribution
processes, which break down the structure of the compound. This is usually done
through a intravascular injection.
Distribution can be potentially serious problems at some of the
barriers, for example the blood – brain barrier. The barrier separates the blood
from the extracellular fluid that is present in the brain.
Metabolism
The breaking down of enzymes begins when they enter the
body. The majority of the small molecular drug metabolism is carried out by the redox enzymes which are usually present in
the liver. As the initial stage of metabolism is reached, the parent compound
converts itself into a new compound which is known as a metabolite. When
metabolites are pharmacologically inert, the administered dose of the host drug
is deactivated through metabolism, and this usually has a reduced effect on the
body. Metabolites may also be pharmacologically active, sometimes more so than
the parent drug.
Excretion
Compounds and their metabolites need to be removed from the
body via excretion. This is usually done through the kidneys. This is done through
urine, the passing of the feces or in some cases it even has to be excreted
through the lungs.
