What does the term 'absorption' refer to in pharmacology?

The term 'absorption' in pharmacology specifically refers to the process by which medications are taken up into the bloodstream following administration. This is a crucial step in pharmacokinetics, as it determines how much of a drug enters systemic circulation and becomes available to exert its therapeutic effects in the body.

When a medication is administered—whether orally, intravenously, topically, or by other means—it must pass through various biological barriers and membranes to reach the bloodstream. The efficiency of this process can be influenced by numerous factors, including the formulation of the drug, its chemical properties, the route of administration, and the physiological conditions of the patient.

Understanding absorption is vital, as it directly impacts the drug’s bioavailability, which is the proportion of the active drug that reaches systemic circulation. High absorption rates and good bioavailability are desirable outcomes in drug design and therapy, as they ensure that the medication is effective at eliciting its intended pharmacological response.