Abstract

Pharmacokinetics (PK) plays a crucial role in the drug discovery and development process, influencing the efficacy, safety, and optimal use of therapeutic agents. The integration of PK principles in the early stages of drug design is essential for optimizing the pharmacological profile of candidates, reducing attrition rates, and accelerating the development timeline. This review highlights the significance of PK in the initial phases of drug discovery, focusing on the importance of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) properties in the selection of lead compounds. Key challenges in incorporating PK studies early in the process, such as model-based predictions and the complexities of human translation, are discussed. Moreover, the application of cutting-edge technologies such as in silico modeling and high-throughput screening is explored as a means to enhance PK predictions. The article provides an overview of how understanding and incorporating PK data early on can lead to more effective, safer, and viable drug candidates