Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drugs for sedation

Pharmacokinetics describes the processes of absorption, distribution, and elimination of drugs and pharmacodynamics describes the effect of drugs on the body. Sedation can be performed by various classes of drugs each with its own mechanism of action and using varying routes of administration: oral, rectal, or parenteral. The course of sedation over time is a reflection of the relationship between pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. The safety and efficacy of sedation is mainly dependant on understanding pharmacologic principles. This review will focus on the general concepts of the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drugs used for sedation.