Top 10 Commonly Confused Words in Marine Pharmacology

Top 10 Commonly Confused Words in Marine Pharmacology 1. Pharmacokinetics vs. Pharmacodynamics Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics are fundamental concepts. While pharmacokinetics deals with how the body affects a drug, pharmacodynamics focuses on how a drug affects the body. Think of it as 'what the body does to the drug' vs. 'what the drug does to the body.' 2. Synergism vs. Potentiation Synergism and potentiation both involve the combined effect of two drugs. However, in synergism, the combined effect is greater than the sum of individual effects. On the other hand, potentiation refers to one drug enhancing the effect of another, without a significant effect on its own. 3. Efficacy vs. Potency Efficacy and potency are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. Efficacy refers to the maximum effect a drug can produce, while potency relates to the dose required to produce a specific effect. In simple terms, efficacy is about 'how well' a drug works, while potency is about 'how much' is needed. 4. Side Effect vs. Adverse Effect Side effects and adverse effects are unwanted outcomes of drug use. However, the key difference lies in their severity. Side effects are generally mild and expected, while adverse effects are more severe, potentially harmful, and unexpected.