drug absorption

[opie's twisted balls]

Here's another one that I hope is easy/quick to answer.

When you take medication P.O. where is it absorbed into the body (i.e. stomach, small intestine or large)? And does it need to follow a normal course for it to be effective....meaning if you have the shits and you're GI tract is moving at warp speed will you receive the benefit of medication?

Gracias amigo!

[Dr Steve]

Here's another one that I hope is easy/quick to answer.

When you take medication P.O. where is it absorbed into the body (i.e. stomach, small intestine or large)? And does it need to follow a normal course for it to be effective....meaning if you have the shits and you're GI tract is moving at warp speed will you receive the benefit of medication?

Gracias amigo!

great question!

and the answer is...it depends. :-)

iron, for example, is mainly absorbed in the duodenum and upper jejunum. B12 is activated in the stomach, but not absorbed until it gets to the end of the small intestine.
If something is "lipophilic" (meaning "fat loving"...Kirstie Allie fans? (crash)) it can be absorbed in the oral cavity even.

If you take potassium that is encased in a wax matrix, the potassium will leech out over 24 hours. If you have the shits, you'll poop out the tablet before it can do its thing, so yes, for some drugs (especially "extended release" preparations) transit time can make a difference.

[opie's twisted balls]

Thanks again! :)

I learned something new and its only 6am.