Why Some Medicines Work Faster Than Others: A Simple Guide to Absorption

Have you ever noticed that some medicines seem to work almost instantly, while others take hours? That’s not by accident — it’s all down to how medicines are absorbed by the body.

Let’s explore the basics of how medicine gets from your mouth to where it needs to go, and why timing can vary.

What Is Absorption?

Absorption is the process by which a medicine enters your bloodstream after you take it. Most tablets, capsules or liquids are absorbed through the lining of your stomach or small intestine.

Factors That Affect Absorption Speed

1. The Form of the Medicine

• Liquids are absorbed quicker than tablets because they don’t need to dissolve.
• Fast-dissolve tablets, chewables, or orodispersible films also act quicker than standard tablets.
• Modified-release tablets are specially designed to release medicine slowly over time.

2. Your Stomach Contents

Taking medicine on an empty stomach often leads to quicker absorption. But for some drugs, food can actually help absorption or reduce irritation.

3. The Solubility of the Drug

Some medicines dissolve easily in water and are absorbed rapidly. Others need special formulation techniques (like salt forms or nanoparticles) to improve absorption.

4. Blood Flow and Enzymes

High blood flow in the gut speeds up absorption, while enzymes in the liver (known as the first-pass effect) can reduce how much of the medicine actually enters circulation.

Quick vs Slow: Which Is Better?

It depends.

• For pain relief or allergic reactions, you want fast action.
• For chronic conditions, slow-release medicines may be better to keep levels steady.

In Summary

How fast a medicine works depends on many factors — from its chemical makeup to how it’s taken. Understanding this helps set realistic expectations and improves how you manage your treatment.