What does buccal administration involve?

Buccal administration involves placing medication between the gum and the inner lining of the cheek. This method allows for the medication to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes in the mouth, bypassing the digestive system and liver. This can lead to a quicker onset of action compared to oral ingestion.

The focus here is on how the medication is delivered and absorbed. Unlike medications placed under the tongue, which is referred to as sublingual administration, buccal administration specifically targets the area between the cheek and gum. This distinction is important in understanding the various routes of drug administration and their effects on absorption and efficacy.

Other routes, such as injections into the muscle or topical applications to the skin, serve different purposes and involve different absorption mechanisms and effects. The buccal route is particularly useful for drugs that require rapid absorption and effect, making it a valuable method in patient care.