What does buccal refer to?

Buccal refers to anything related to the cheek or the gum area inside the mouth. When a medication or substance is described as buccal, it means that it is administered by placing it between the gum and the inner lining of the cheek. This route allows for the substance to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the oral mucosa. This method is beneficial because it bypasses the digestive system, enabling faster absorption and effectiveness.

In contrast, other terms like sublingual pertain specifically to administration under the tongue, nasal refers to something within the nasal cavity, and pharyngeal relates to the throat. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in medical contexts, particularly regarding patient care and the different ways substances can be administered for optimal effectiveness.