Physiologically based pharmacokinetic absorption, distribution, metabolism

As with classic compartment pharmacokinetic models, PBPK models can be used to simulate drug plasma concentration versus time profiles. However, PBPK models differ from classic PK models in that they include separate compartments for tissues involved in absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination connected by physiologically based descriptions of blood flow (Figure 10.1). 

Another model, which is increasingly being used, is the physiologically based pharmacokinetic model. This uses data on the absorption, distribution, metabolism, tissue sequestration, kinetics, elimination, and mechanism to determine the target dose used for the extrapolation, but it requires extensive data. 

The general application of epidemiologic methods to developmental toxicity is described below and followed by a discussion of laboratory studies in rodents and rabbits. The bulk of data available in developmental toxicology are based on these protocols. Since the difference in human and animal response appears to rest in large part on differences in behavior, physiologic parameters, and xenobiotic absorption, distribution, metabolic fate, and elimination, a brief description of transplacental pharmacokinetics is also provided. 

---