Where are medications administered in the buccal route?

The buccal route of medication administration involves placing the medication between the gums and the cheek. This method allows for the medication to be absorbed through the mucous membranes in the mouth, leading to rapid onset of action. The area between the gums and cheek has a rich blood supply, which facilitates the absorption of the medication directly into the systemic circulation while bypassing the digestive system. This is particularly advantageous for medications that may be inactivated by stomach acids or have a high first-pass metabolism when taken orally.

In contrast, the other options refer to different routes: underneath the tongue corresponds to sublingual administration, which also aims for rapid absorption but occurs in a different location. The earlobe is not a site for medication administration. Lastly, the roof of the mouth can be used for some types of topical treatments, but it is not designated as the buccal route. Thus, the correct identification of the buccal route is critical for understanding various medication administration techniques.