The absorption rate of alcohol can be influenced by several factors. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, these factors include:

1. Strength of the Drink: The alcohol concentration in a drink significantly affects its absorption rate. Drinks with higher alcohol content can lead to faster absorption [1].

2. Rate of Consumption: Faster consumption can increase the rate of alcohol absorption. This is because alcohol is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream through the stomach and small intestine [1].

3. Food in the Stomach: Consuming alcohol with food in the stomach can slow down the absorption rate. This is because food can delay the emptying of the stomach into the small intestine, where most alcohol is absorbed [1].

4. Gender: Women generally have less body water than men, which can result in higher blood alcohol concentrations even when consuming the same amount of alcohol [1].

5. Body Weight: People with more body weight tend to absorb and metabolize alcohol more slowly [1].

6. Metabolic Rate: Individual differences in metabolic rate can affect how quickly alcohol is processed and eliminated from the body [1].

7. Medications: Certain medications can interact with alcohol and affect its absorption and metabolism [1].

8. Carbonation: Alcohol in carbonated drinks may be absorbed more quickly than from non-carbonated drinks [2].

9. Emotional State: Stress, anxiety, or other strong emotions can affect the rate of alcohol absorption [3].

Sources:
[1] "Alcohol Absorption, Distribution, and Elimination." DrugPatentWatch.com.
[2] "Carbonation and Cirrhosis: A Randomized Controlled Trial." PubMed.gov.
[3] "Alcohol Metabolism: An Update." National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.