Bioavailability - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Bioavailability refers to the proportion of a substance, such as a drug or nutrient, that enters the bloodstream and is available for the body to use effectively. It measures how well and quickly a substance is absorbed.
Definition:
The extent and rate a substance enters circulation and becomes biologically active.
Synonyms:
absorbability, assimilation, uptake
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
ineffectiveness, unavailability
Common Collocations:
drug bioavailability, nutrient bioavailability, enhance bioavailability
Derivatives:
bioavailable, bioavailabilities
Usage Tips:
Use "bioavailability" when discussing how well a drug or nutrient is absorbed and utilized by the body.
Common Phrases:
high bioavailability, low bioavailability, improve bioavailability
Etymology:
Derived from "bio-" (life) + "availability," first used in mid-20th century pharmacology.
Examples:
- 1. The drug's bioavailability determines its effectiveness in treating the condition.
- 2. Food can affect the bioavailability of certain medications.
- 3. Scientists study ways to improve nutrient bioavailability in supplements.
- 4. Low bioavailability means less of the substance reaches the bloodstream.