The higher the absorption rate constant, the faster the absorption of the drug. Thus, Preparation C will give the fastest onset of effect (since it has the highest k_a). Remember that the peak concentration is a function of both the rate of absorption and the rate of elimination. Since the elimination rate is the same for all three preparations, as the absorption rate increases, the peak concentration increases. The preparation with the lowest peak concentration will give the lowest intensity of pharmacologic effect. Thus, Preparation A will exhibit the lowest intensity of effect.

 

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