How should Didanosine (ddI) be administered for optimal absorption?

Didanosine (ddI) should be administered on an empty stomach for optimal absorption. When taken without food, the drug is better absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. If taken with food, the presence of food can hinder its absorption due to interactions with gastric pH and the time it takes for the gastrointestinal tract to empty.

This is why taking ddI on an empty stomach—typically one hour before or two hours after a meal—ensures that the medication reaches the bloodstream effectively, allowing it to work as intended in the treatment of HIV/AIDS. Understanding the impact of food on medication absorption is essential for ensuring that the treatment is most effective without compromising its pharmacokinetics.