Oral administration is a common way to take medication: a substance is taken through the mouth and swallowed, then processed by the digestive system. This lesson explains how the route works, the terminology and dosage forms associated with it, and practical factors that can affect its use.
Oral administration means taking a substance through the mouth, swallowing it, and allowing it to pass through the digestive system. The substance may then be absorbed and reach the bloodstream. Many medications use this route.
All flashcards
What is oral administration?
A route in which a substance is taken through the mouth, swallowed, and processed through the digestive system.
What do per os and P.O. mean?
Per os is Latin for “by mouth.” P.O. or PO commonly describes a treatment that is swallowed.
How do buccal, sublabial, and sublingual administration differ?
Buccal medicines dissolve inside the cheek, sublabial medicines under the lip, and sublingual medicines under the tongue. They differ from medicines that are swallowed.
What are time-release or sustained-release forms?
Tablets or capsules designed to release medication gradually over time.
What conditions are required for oral administration?
The patient must be conscious and able to swallow.
Quiz questions
Which description distinguishes swallowed oral administration from buccal, sublabial, and sublingual administration?Answer: The substance is swallowed and passes through the digestive system.
What does enteral administration broadly mean?Answer: Giving a substance through the digestive tract.
What is a common practical benefit of oral administration compared with injection?Answer: It is often easier and less painful to use.
What is the defining feature of a sustained-release tablet or capsule?Answer: It releases medication gradually over time.
Why might an oral medicine cause nausea or vomiting?Answer: Some medicines can cause gastrointestinal effects when taken by mouth.