$Unique_ID{BRK00661}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Why Do Drugs or Medications Work On Some People and Not On Others?}
$Subject{medication medications medicine medicines treatment treatments affect
speed absorptions enzyme absorption}
$Volume{R-0}
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Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Why Do Drugs or Medications Work On Some People and Not On Others?


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QUESTION:  Both my brother and I received the same medication for the same
problem.  I got great results, but my brother claims he has no relief.  Why
do drugs or medications work on some people and not on others?

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ANSWER:  There are many reasons you and your brother may respond differently
to the same medications.  Surprising variances can occur in the amount and
speed that a drug is absorbed in intestines from one patient to another.  This
can be caused by the amount of food, antacids or even other medications in
your stomach.  One individual's enzyme system may inactivate a drug and his/
her kidneys then will secrete it faster than in others.
     Also, drug manufacturers use different materials to coat their pills,
which can cause variations in how long they take to dissolve or remain in
one's body.  Other factors can include how acute the disease has become and
one's psychological condition when taking a medicine.  Taking several
medications, may change the body's response to any of the drugs being taken at
once.  In fact your body can respond differently to a drug today than it did
yesterday--actually the difference can even occur over the matter of a few
hours.  Once again we find that each of us is a unique individual, requiring
personal attention to our medical needs.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.