Pharmacology – Chapter 3 Study Guide Drug Action Across the Lifespan

Flashcards covering key concepts from Chapter 3 on drug action across the lifespan, focusing on pharmacological principles, high-risk groups, and key terms.

Drug responses vary due to __.

Age, genetics (pharmacogenetics), body composition, disease states, diet & nutrition, polypharmacy.

__ is the safest dosing parameter, especially important for pediatrics and older adults.

Weight (kg)

A __ effect refers to improvement without the active drug being administered.

Placebo

Drug __ is a condition characterized by decreased response to a drug over time.

Tolerance

__ term refers to the ability of a substance to cause cancer.

Carcinogenicity

__ drugs are those that can cause abnormal fetal development.

Teratogenic

In older adults, it is a best practice to __ and go slow with medication administration.

Start low

Avoid administering __ to patients from infancy through adolescence due to Reye’s syndrome risk.

Salicylates (aspirin)

Peak level refers to the __ concentration of a drug in the blood.

Highest

__ are effective in monitoring drug levels to prevent toxicity.

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring