What is the primary characteristic of a troche?

A troche is designed as a flat, round dosage form that contains medication intended for dissolution in the mouth. This form allows the active ingredients to be absorbed through the mucosal membranes, providing a quick onset of action and localized effects, particularly beneficial for throat or oral conditions. The shape and dosage form facilitate ease of administration without the need for swallowing, which can be particularly useful for patients who may have difficulty with traditional tablets or capsules.

While solid tablet forms are a common way to deliver medication, they typically refer to traditional tablets that may not have the same intended application as a troche, which is typically meant to dissolve in the mouth rather than be swallowed whole. Liquid dosages for injection and gel capsules do not represent the unique formulation and delivery mechanism that characterize a troche, which is specifically designed to dissolve and absorb in the oral cavity.