General pharmacology and pharmacokinetics mnemonic

Stages of pharmacokinetics

The mnemonic

LADME

What each word stands for

  • LLiberation of the drug from its formulation
  • AAbsorption
  • DDistribution
  • MMetabolism
  • EExcretion

Why it matters clinically

Gives a framework to explain why a dose, route or organ disease changes drug levels.

Where it stops being reliable

Some books use ADME and leave out liberation; it does not cover pharmacodynamics.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the General pharmacology and pharmacokinetics mnemonic?

LADME. It helps you recall: Stages of pharmacokinetics.

What does "L" stand for?

Liberation of the drug from its formulation

What does "A" stand for?

Absorption

What does "D" stand for?

Distribution

What are all the parts of the LADME mnemonic?

L: Liberation of the drug from its formulation; A: Absorption; D: Distribution; M: Metabolism; E: Excretion.

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to General pharmacology and pharmacokinetics in Pharmacology.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Some books use ADME and leave out liberation; it does not cover pharmacodynamics.

How is this useful clinically?

Gives a framework to explain why a dose, route or organ disease changes drug levels.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Pharmacology question about General pharmacology and pharmacokinetics.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.