Glossary

Cmax – highest concentration of a drug after a dose.

What happens when you take a drug?

lumbar puncture – taking a sample of spinal fluid by inserting a needle into the body at the base of the spine. Also called a spinal tap.

albumin – a protein made by the liver. It carries drugs, hormones and waste products through the blood and maintains fluid levels within the body. An abnormally low level of albumin is a sign of serious liver damage.

nucleotide – the building blocks of the genetic code (DNA/RNA). Also called a base.

buprenorphine – strong pain-killer useful for treating heroin addiction. See also methadone.