Fundamentals of Midwifery: A Textbook for Students (146 page)

Contraindication
A reason not to give a specific drug due to something in the patient’s history.344
Drug
Chemical substances which interact with biological systems.
Excretion
Removal out of the body.
First pass metabolism
The amount of drug which is metabolise by the liver before reaching general circulation.
Half life
The time taken for plasma concentration to reduce by a half of its original value.
Inhalation
Breathing in.
Intramuscular
Into a muscle.
Licensed
A marketing authorisation.
Medicines management
The clinical, cost effective and safe use of medicines to ensure patients get the maximum benefit from the medicines they need, while at the same time minimising potential harm.