Terminology associated with serum drug levelsSerum drug levelsTherapeutic indexMinimal effective concentrationTherapeutic levelToxic levelSerum half-life

Serum drug levels: This term refers to the concentration of a drug in the bloodstream. It is measured to determine the effectiveness and safety of a medication.

Therapeutic index: The therapeutic index is a measure of the safety of a drug. It is calculated by dividing the toxic dose of a drug by the therapeutic dose. A higher therapeutic index indicates a safer drug.

Minimal effective concentration: This term refers to the lowest concentration of a drug in the bloodstream that is still effective in producing the desired therapeutic effect.

Therapeutic level: The therapeutic level is the range of drug concentration in the bloodstream that is considered effective and safe for a particular medication. It is usually determined based on clinical trials and research.

Toxic level: The toxic level is the concentration of a drug in the bloodstream that can cause harmful or toxic effects on the body. It is important to monitor drug levels to avoid reaching toxic levels.

Serum half-life: The serum half-life is the time it takes for the concentration of a drug in the bloodstream to decrease by half. It is an important parameter to determine the dosing frequency and duration of a medication.