What is drug absorption?

Drug absorption refers to the process by which a drug enters the bloodstream after it has been administered. This is a crucial pharmacokinetic step because the onset of a drug's effect relies heavily on how effectively it is absorbed. After administration, whether oral, intravenous, or via other routes, the drug must cross biological membranes to reach the systemic circulation. Once in the bloodstream, the drug can be distributed throughout the body to exert its therapeutic effects.

The importance of absorption is also tied to various factors, such as the drug's formulation, the route of administration, and physiological conditions of the patient, all of which can impact how quickly and efficiently a drug is absorbed into circulation. Understanding absorption is fundamental for optimizing drug efficacy and ensuring proper therapeutic outcomes.