Pharmacokinetics is the study of how the body processes a drug. It involves absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of a drug. Absorption is the movement of a drug from its site of administration into the bloodstream. Factors such as drug formulation and route of administration influence absorption. Distribution refers to how and where a drug is distributed in the body. Factors such as a drug's solubility and binding to proteins in the blood affect distribution. Metabolism involves the breakdown of a drug into smaller molecules, usually in the liver. This process can either activate or deactivate a drug. Excretion is the removal of a drug and its metabolites from the body, usually via the kidneys. This process determines the drug's half-life and duration of action. Understanding pharmacokinetics is crucial in determining the appropriate dosage and dosing interval for a drug. Different patients may have different pharmacokinetic profiles, leading to variations in drug efficacy and potential side effects. It is essential for healthcare professionals to consider pharmacokinetic principles when prescribing medications to optimize therapeutic outcomes and reduce the risk of adverse effects.