Volume of distribution
A pharmacokinetic parameter relating the total amount of drug in the body to the plasma concentration. A large Vd indicates extensive tissue distribution; a small Vd suggests the peptide stays primarily in the bloodstream.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Volume of distribution?
Why is Volume of distribution important in peptide research?
Related Terms
The time required for a peptide to distribute from the bloodstream into tissues during the initial distribution phase. Typically much shorter than the elimination half-life.
Plasma protein bindingThe binding of a peptide to proteins in the blood (primarily albumin). Only the unbound (free) fraction is pharmacologically active. High protein binding extends half-life but reduces the free active concentration.
PharmacokineticsThe study of how the body absorbs, distributes, metabolizes, and excretes a peptide over time (what the body does to the drug). Described by parameters including Cmax, Tmax, AUC, half-life, and clearance.