Page 107 - 78 glossary of hivaids-related terms_opt

Pharmacokinetics
The interaction of a drug with the body over a period of time.
General pharmacokinetic processes are absorption, distribution,
metabolism, and excretion. These processes are usually measured
through blood and urine samples.

Pharmacology
The branch of medical science that studies the chemistry,
effects, and uses of drugs. Pharmacology includes the study
of a drug’s therapeutic value, toxicology, and interaction with
the body (pharmacokinetics).
See Also: Pharmacokinetics

Phase I Trial
An initial clinical study of new drugs or other therapies in small
groups of healthy volunteers, usually 20 to 80 people. This phase
of clinical trial determines initial drug safety and side effects.

Phase II Trial
An early clinical study that evaluates the safety and effectiveness
of new drugs or other therapies. Phase II trials also help determine
short-term side effects and risks associated with new drugs. This
trial phase usually recruits no more than 100 people affected with P
the disease or condition under study.

Phase III Trial
A clinical study that compares the effectiveness of new drugs to
standard therapies for the disease or condition in question. This
trial phase recruits a large population of people with the disease
or condition being studied, ranging from several hundred to
several thousand volunteers. The results of these trials are used to
evaluate the overall risks and benefits of the drug and to provide the
information needed for the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to
consider the drug for approval.

HIV/AIDS Glossary 105