A1 Understand health issues page 42 Flashcards
Why is there a constant demand for new drug treatments?
There is a constant demand for new drug treatments as scientists learn more about disease mechanisms and potential treatments.
How long does it typically take for a new drug to be researched and considered safe for human use?
It takes, on average, 10 to 12 years and around £1 billion for a medication to undergo sufficient research to be considered safe for human use.
What is the first step in developing a new drug?
The first step in developing a new drug is identifying an ‘active chemical’ that acts on some part of the disease process being studied.
Where were many active chemicals for drug treatments historically found?
Historically, many active chemicals were found in the natural world, in substances produced by plants and animals.
How is computer-assisted design used in modern drug development?
Computer-assisted design allows scientists to simulate the actions of numerous different chemicals and predict their potential effects.
What are pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics?
Pharmacodynamics refers to the effects of a drug on the body, while pharmacokinetics is the study of how a drug is absorbed, distributed, metabolised, and excreted by the body.
What are in silico and in vitro studies in the drug development process?
In silico studies involve computer modelling, while in vitro studies are performed in the laboratory on isolated tissues and cells to understand drug behaviour.
What is the purpose of in vivo studies in drug development?
In vivo studies involve testing drugs on living organisms, often animals, to observe how they interact with living tissue and gather data on safety and efficacy.
