What Are Adme Studies

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.