Chronopharmacology
Chronopharmacology (pronounced: kroh-noh-fahr-muh-kol-uh-jee) is a branch of Pharmacology that studies the interaction of biological rhythms and drug effects. The term is derived from the Greek words "chronos" (time), "pharmakon" (drug), and "logos" (study).
Etymology
The term "Chronopharmacology" is derived from three Greek words: "Chronos" meaning time, "Pharmakon" meaning drug, and "Logos" meaning study. Thus, it literally translates to "the study of how drugs interact with time."
Overview
Chronopharmacology involves the study of how biological rhythms, such as the Circadian rhythm, affect drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. This field of study is important in determining the optimal time of day to administer medications to maximize their effectiveness and minimize their side effects.
Related Terms
- Chronotherapy: The treatment of diseases and conditions by administering medications in synchronization with the body's circadian rhythms.
- Circadian rhythm: The natural, internal process that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and repeats roughly every 24 hours.
- Pharmacokinetics: The study of how the body absorbs, distributes, metabolizes, and excretes drugs.
- Pharmacodynamics: The study of the biochemical and physiological effects of drugs on the body.
See Also
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