Why should medications in tablet form be approached with caution?

Medications in tablet form should be approached with caution primarily because they may not have predictable absorption rates. This means that the way the body absorbs a tablet can vary based on several factors, including the formulation of the tablet, the presence of food in the stomach, and individual patient differences such as gastrointestinal motility or pH levels.

In contrast, some medications may be delivered via more controlled methods, such as injections or infusions, which often allow for more consistent absorption and effects. Tablets can also undergo different physical changes in the digestive system, which can impact how much of the active ingredient gets into the bloodstream, potentially leading to variations in effectiveness and safety. Consequently, understanding how these variables affect the dosing and overall therapeutic outcome is crucial for patient safety and treatment efficacy.