Pharmacokinetic simulations using cellular automata in a pharmacokinetics course

Abstract

Cellular automata are systems composed of two-dimensional cell arrays which change according to specific, pre-determined rules. For this reason, cellular automata were used to illustrate and simulate kinetic processes in a introductory pharmacokinetics course in a four-year PharmD curriculum. Simulations were included in the lectures whenever a new pharmacokinetic model or concept was introduced. Types of simulations performed included zero- and first- order input, distribution, and elimination from one- or two-compartment body models. Following course completion, seventy two percent of respondants strongly agreed or agreed with the statement: “The kinetic simulations helped me to better understand pharmacokinetic mathematical principles. ” Incorporation of simulations may also have increased the frequency of correct responses to questions testing pharmacokinetic concepts on mid-semester and final exams. Therefore, cellular automata may provide a useful teaching tool for kinetic simulations in pharmacokinetic courses