In what phase do drugs move from the bloodstream to tissues?

The phase in which drugs move from the bloodstream to tissues is known as distribution. This phase follows absorption, where the drug enters the bloodstream, and during distribution, it travels through the circulatory system to various tissues and organs. The drug molecules bind to proteins in the blood or diffuse through cell membranes to reach the target sites where they exert their therapeutic effects.

Understanding this phase is crucial for medication aides as it can influence the effectiveness of the medication, how quickly it acts, and the potential for side effects. Factors such as blood flow, the affinity of the drug for different tissues, and the presence of barriers like the blood-brain barrier play significant roles in the distribution process. This phase ensures that the medication reaches the appropriate locations in the body where they are needed to produce their intended pharmacological effects.