How much water is enough to absorb the medicine effectively?

Recently, doctors have emphasized the importance of drinking enough water when taking oral medications to help the drug be better absorbed, reduce irritation and protect digestive health.

When it comes to taking medication, most people pay attention to the dosage and when to take it, but pay little attention to how to take it. Most tablets and capsules should be taken with at least 200-250 ml of water. This simple habit not only helps to avoid discomfort but also helps the medication work better, according to India Today (India).

Why is water important when taking medicine?

“When we swallow a pill, it passes through the esophagus and into the stomach before being absorbed into the bloodstream. Without enough water, the pill can stick to the throat lining, causing irritation or dissolving more slowly,” explains Dr. CC Nair, Department of Internal Medicine, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre (India).

Most experts agree that each tablet should be taken with a full glass of water (200-250 ml)

Photo: AI

Most experts agree that each tablet should be swallowed with a full glass of water (200-250 ml). A few small sips are not enough, especially for large tablets. Drinking enough water helps the medicine move easily, dissolve faster and be absorbed better, thereby increasing its effectiveness and safety. It also helps reduce the risk of ulcers and irritation in the esophagus.

Do not lie down immediately after taking the medicine.

There are some medications that people need to pay more attention to when taking:

Antibiotics : Should be taken with plenty of water to avoid stomach upset and reduce the burden on the kidneys.

Pain relievers (NSAIDs): Drinking enough water helps reduce stomach irritation.

Iron tablets : Best absorbed when taken with water, should not be taken with milk because calcium will hinder the absorption of the drug.

Thyroid medication : Should be taken on an empty stomach and with water only, not with tea or coffee.

In addition, many people often take medicine with tea, coffee or juice. This habit, although small, can reduce the ability to absorb medicine. Patients should not lie down immediately after taking medicine because it will easily cause the medicine to get stuck in the esophagus.

Dr. Manisha Arora, Director of General Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Delhi (India) recommends: "You should wait at least 30 minutes after taking the medicine before lying down, because lying down immediately can cause reflux and irritation. In addition, people should not use water that is too cold to take medicine, instead, water at room temperature or slightly warm will help the medicine dissolve better."

Staying well hydrated is not only good for taking medication, but also aids digestion, nutrient absorption and bowel function. However, people with chronic kidney disease or limited fluid intake should follow their doctor's instructions.

Taking medication with the right amount of water may be a small thing, but it is crucial for its effectiveness and safety. “Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, always take your medication with plenty of water to increase its effectiveness and protect your digestive system,” concludes Dr. Nair.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/uong-thuoc-bao-nhieu-nuoc-la-du-de-ap-thu-hieu-qua-185251012162734734.htm