bioverfügbare

Bioverfügbare is a German term that translates to "bioavailable" in English. It describes the degree and rate at which an active substance, such as a drug or nutrient, is absorbed into the bloodstream and becomes available at the site of action in the body. A substance with high bioavailability is readily absorbed and quickly reaches its target. Conversely, low bioavailability means that only a small fraction of the administered substance actually enters circulation or reaches its intended destination.

Several factors influence bioavailability. For orally administered substances, the route of administration is crucial. For example, intravenous administration bypasses the digestive system and typically results in 100% bioavailability. Oral absorption is affected by the substance's solubility, its chemical stability in the gastrointestinal tract, and whether it can pass through the intestinal wall. First-pass metabolism, where the substance is processed by the liver before reaching systemic circulation, can also significantly reduce bioavailability.

Bioavailability is a critical consideration in pharmacology and nutrition. For drugs, it determines the effective dose and influences how often a medication needs to be taken. In the context of nutrients, bioavailability impacts how well the body can utilize vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial compounds from food or supplements. Understanding bioavailability helps in designing more effective treatments and optimizing dietary intake for health.