Immediate release

Immediate release (IR) refers to a type of drug delivery system that releases a drug into the body promptly after administration. This is the most common type of drug delivery system and is often used for drugs that need to be absorbed quickly into the bloodstream.

Mechanism of Action

The mechanism of action for immediate release drugs involves the rapid dissolution of the drug in the gastrointestinal tract after ingestion. This allows the drug to be quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and distributed throughout the body. The speed of absorption can be influenced by several factors, including the solubility of the drug, the presence of food in the stomach, and the pH of the stomach.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Immediate release drugs have several advantages. They provide rapid onset of action, which can be beneficial for conditions that require quick relief, such as pain or anxiety. They also allow for more precise dosing, as the entire dose is available for absorption immediately after administration.

However, immediate release drugs also have some disadvantages. They may require more frequent dosing, as the drug is quickly eliminated from the body. This can lead to fluctuations in drug levels, which can increase the risk of side effects and decrease the effectiveness of the drug. In addition, some drugs may cause irritation to the stomach if they are released too quickly.

Examples

Examples of immediate release drugs include aspirin, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen. These drugs are often used for their analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, and their immediate release formulation allows for quick relief of symptoms.

See Also

• Controlled release
• Extended release
• Drug delivery system