IPH - Hour 3 - Routes or Administration
Other Routes
Drugs may also be absorbed through the skin,
the mucous membranes, and the respiratory
tract. They may be applied to any body orifice,
to the ears, nose, eyes, and mouth.
Sublingual.
The tablet or gel is placed under the tongue
and is dissolved by the saliva. The medication is
then absorbed through the oral mucosa.
Buccal.
The tablet or gel is placed between the gumline
and the outer cheek. The medication dissolves
there and is then absorbed through the oral mucosa.
Opthalmic.
Drugs that are applied to the eyes. These
include eye drops and ointments.
Otic.
Drugs that are applied to the ear or into the
outer ear canal. These also include drops
and ointments.
Rectal.
Drugs that are applied to the anus or into the
rectum. These also include suppositories and
enemas. Suppositories have a soft solid base
that melt at body temperature.
Vaginal.
Drugs that are applied into the vagina. Vaginal
medications include creams, suppositories and
douches.
Bladder.
Drugs that are applied into the bladder. Bladder
applications can be a one time application or a
continuous irrigation.
Topical.
The drug that is applied to the skin for a local
effect. Forms include creams, salves, gels,
lotions, and ointments. A topical medication
order must always include the
site.
Transdermal.
These drugs are slowly absorbed through the
skin using a patch.
Administering Topical and Transdermal Medications
Inhalants.
Drugs that are absorbed in the respiratory tract.
Respiratory drugs can be given with a spray, a
canistor or measured dose inhalant (MDI) or a
nebulizer.
Review Content
Other Routes of Administration