Before taking a dose of a strong drug, the patient mentions that it has been quite a while since she last ate. Why is this important to know? Question 2 options: There is a much greater risk of an allergic reaction to the medicine. The rate of absorption increases, as well as the likelihood of irritation. The rate at which the drug will be excreted increases substantially. The rate of absorption will be significantly reduced to the point where the medicine may have little or no effect.