What is a buccal medication?

A buccal medication refers to a solid formulation that is placed between the gums and the inner lining of the cheek, allowing it to dissolve and be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the buccal mucosa. This method bypasses the gastrointestinal tract, providing a faster onset of action due to the direct absorption into the systemic circulation. Buccal administration is commonly used for medications that need to act quickly or for patients who may have difficulty swallowing pills.

The other options describe different routes of medication administration. Administering a medication via an IV line is a parenteral route, while liquid medications given through a tube usually refer to enteral administration. Medications absorbed through the intestinal tract pertain to oral routes where drugs are metabolized and absorbed after ingestion. These methods contrast with buccal administration, which specifically utilizes the mucous membranes of the cheek for absorption.