Ketoconazole has improved absorption when taken with which type of meal?

Ketoconazole is an antifungal medication that exhibits improved absorption when taken with a fatty meal. This is primarily because ketoconazole is a lipophilic (fat-loving) drug, meaning that its solubility and absorption are enhanced in the presence of fats. When taken with a meal that is high in fat, the presence of dietary lipids increases the solubilization of the drug in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to better absorption into the bloodstream.

In contrast, lower fat meals or meals that are not particularly rich in fats do not provide the same level of solubilization for ketoconazole, resulting in reduced absorption. Therefore, taking ketoconazole with a fatty meal helps maximize its therapeutic effect by ensuring that a higher concentration of the drug is available for systemic circulation.