Researchers at MIT have developed a new pill that is much more efficient at delivering medicine into the bloodstream. Instead of a simple spheroid, it is covered in a multitude of tiny spikes, which stick into the stomache lining and ensure the medicine is absorbed rather than passed through the body undigested. Jeff is fascinated by the evolution of the swallow-able tablet, from its roots thousands of years ago to the more common "friable" form introduced in the 19th century - but Anthony wants no part of swallowing spike-balls. Beware the Spike Lobby.

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Article: [http://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2014/11/what-happens-to-a-pill-after-you-pop-it/382183/](http://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2014/11/what-happens-to-a-pill-after-you-pop-it/382183/)