How does agitation impact drug absorption?

The correct answer highlights that agitation increases gastric motility, which can significantly impact drug absorption. When a patient is agitated, the body responds with heightened physiological activity. Increased gastric motility refers to the faster movement of food and substances through the stomach and intestines. This can lead to more rapid transit times for drugs, potentially altering the time they spend in the stomach or intestines.

In scenarios where drugs rely on specific absorption times to be effective, increased gastric motility may affect their bioavailability. If a drug is absorbed too quickly, it may not have sufficient time to break down and enter the bloodstream effectively, potentially reducing its therapeutic effects. Thus, agitation can lead to variations in how and when drugs are absorbed, highlighting the importance of considering emotional and psychological states in pharmacological care.