Oral drug administration refers to the method of delivering medications or drugs into the body through the oral route, specifically by mouth. It is the most common and convenient way of taking medications, as it involves swallowing pills, tablets, capsules, or liquids.
When a medication is administered orally, it passes through the mouth, into the esophagus, and down to the stomach where it is further broken down and absorbed into the bloodstream. From there, the drug can easily reach the targeted organs or tissues to exert its therapeutic effects.
Oral drug administration offers several advantages. It is non-invasive and generally painless, making it suitable for patients of all ages. It also provides for self-administration, allowing individuals to take their medications without the assistance of healthcare professionals. Additionally, oral drugs often have a longer duration of action due to slow release and sustained absorption.
However, this administration route also has its limitations. The onset of action may be slower compared to other routes, since the drug must be digested and absorbed before it can reach the systemic circulation. Some medications may also be subject to degradation by stomach acid or metabolism by liver enzymes, reducing their effectiveness.
Overall, oral drug administration is a widely utilized method for delivering medications, offering convenience, adaptability, and ease of use for patients.
