Oral administration involves taking a substance by mouth so it can be absorbed by the body.
Based on the provided reference, oral administration is a route of administration whereby a substance is taken through the mouth, swallowed, and then processed via the digestive system. This is a common method used for delivering many types of substances, particularly medications.
The Process of Oral Administration
When a substance is administered orally, it follows a specific path through the body:
- Ingestion: The substance (e.g., a pill, liquid, or capsule) is placed in the mouth.
- Swallowing: The substance is swallowed, moving down the esophagus towards the stomach.
- Processing via the Digestive System: Once in the stomach and intestines, the substance is broken down, and its active components are absorbed into the bloodstream. This absorption primarily occurs in the small intestine due to its large surface area.
- Distribution: The substance is then transported via the bloodstream to the target areas in the body.
Why Oral Administration is Common
Oral administration is widely used for several reasons:
- Convenience: It is easy for individuals to self-administer substances by mouth without requiring assistance from a healthcare professional (in most cases).
- Cost-Effectiveness: Manufacturing oral dosage forms (like tablets or capsules) is often less expensive than producing injectables or other complex formulations.
- Patient Acceptance: Most people find taking something by mouth more comfortable and less invasive than other routes like injections.
Dosage Forms Administered Orally
Substances administered orally come in various forms to suit different needs and ensure proper delivery and absorption. Common oral dosage forms include:
- Tablets: Solid, compressed forms containing the active substance.
- Capsules: Gelatin shells enclosing a powder or liquid substance.
- Liquids: Solutions, suspensions, or syrups.
- Chewable Tablets: Tablets designed to be chewed before swallowing.
- Effervescent Tablets: Tablets that dissolve in water, creating a bubbly drink.
Factors Influencing Oral Absorption
Several factors can influence how well a substance is absorbed when taken orally:
- Food Intake: Taking a substance with or without food can affect its absorption rate and extent.
- Acidity of the Stomach: The pH level in the stomach can impact the breakdown and solubility of the substance.
- Intestinal Motility: How quickly the substance moves through the digestive tract affects the time available for absorption.
- Drug Formulation: The way the substance is prepared (e.g., immediate-release vs. extended-release) influences its release profile.
Understanding the process of oral administration helps explain why it is the preferred method for delivering many substances for systemic effects.
