Sublingual

Sublingual refers to the anatomical region under the tongue. It is commonly used in reference to the administration of drugs. Sublingual administration involves placing a drug under the tongue where it dissolves and is absorbed into the bloodstream. This method of drug administration has several advantages, including rapid absorption and the avoidance of the first-pass effect.

Anatomy

The sublingual gland is a salivary gland about the size of an almond that lies immediately beneath the mucous membrane of the floor of the mouth, under the tongue. It contributes a small volume of saliva to the total saliva volume.

Drug Administration

Sublingual administration is a route of administration where certain drugs are entered directly into the bloodstream via absorption under the tongue. This method is often used for drugs that are rapidly degraded by the digestive system, such as nitroglycerin, which is used to treat angina pectoris.

Advantages

Sublingual administration has several advantages. It allows for rapid absorption of medication into the bloodstream, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract and the first-pass metabolism in the liver, which can greatly reduce the bioavailability of the drug. This method also allows for the administration of drugs in patients who are unable to swallow or in emergency situations where intravenous access is not available.

Disadvantages

Despite its advantages, sublingual administration also has some disadvantages. Not all drugs can be administered this way, and the drug must be able to dissolve under the tongue. Some patients may also find this method of administration uncomfortable or unpleasant.

See Also

• Oral administration
• Parenteral administration
• First-pass effect

Sublingual Resources
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