The half-life of a substance is the time it takes for an initial quantity of that substance to be reduced by half. This concept can be applied to a wide range of things, from radioactive elements, which decay into other elements, to drugs, which are metabolized into other substances and/or eliminated by the body. Here, we will focus on the half-life of drugs and supplements. In this context, the half-life of a substance is determined by the body’s natural process of metabolism and elimination.

Elimination refers to the process by which substances such as drugs or supplements are changed and/or removed from the body. Knowing the rate at which substances are eliminated from the body can help determine their half-life. If the elimination rate of a substance is slowed, there is a potential for it to build up in the body, which can lead to toxicity and side effects. The elimination rate can be decreased or increased in several ways. One way is through changes in a family of metabolic enzymes known as the cytochrome P450 (CYP450) family. These enzymes are responsible for the breakdown of many drugs and supplements, and their activity levels can directly impact how quickly or slowly substances can be broken down and/or used in the body. Another factor contributing to the elimination rate of a substance is liver and kidney function. Since almost every drug and supplement is broken down in either the liver or kidneys, the function of either organ can impact elimination, and thus half-life.

Knowing the average half-life of a substance can help to avoid toxic levels and to lower the risk of side effects. If a medication or supplement is taken too frequently, the substance may be at too high of a level in the body; this can increase the chances and severity of any potential side effects and, in severe cases, can even lead to toxicity. In contrast, if the substance is not dosed frequently enough, it may not be able to reach or sustain effective levels. By knowing the average half-life of each substance, drug and supplement manufacturers are able to determine how often the substance should be taken, leading to safe and effective recommendations.