What is the primary characteristic of buccal administration of a drug?

The primary characteristic of buccal administration of a drug is that the drug is absorbed through the mucous membranes in the mouth. This method allows for the drug to enter systemic circulation directly via the oral mucosa, bypassing first-pass metabolism in the liver, which can enhance the bioavailability and effectiveness of certain medications. By placing a drug between the gum and the inner lining of the cheek, it dissolves and is absorbed into the bloodstream more rapidly than if it were ingested as a pill or swallowed. This route is particularly beneficial for drugs that require quick onset of action or those that are poorly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract.

Other methods of drug administration, such as injections or topical applications, do not utilize the oral mucosa for absorption nor do they achieve the same direct systemic effects. Understanding buccal administration's mechanism emphasizes its significance in therapeutic settings.