Physical Delivery Methods

Designed to dissolve slowly between the cheek and the gum; bypasses GI tract and allows for prolonged medication release.

AKA SL tablets. Dissolve quickly under the tongue for nearly immediate effects.

Dissolves in water or other solution.

Used for those with difficulty swallowing normal tablets; usually children and the elderly.

Designed to delay release until it reaches the intestine.

• 1. Drug is ineffective if it is absorbed in the stomach
• 2. Drug is Harmful to the stomach.

Covered with a layer of film; used to mask drug taste

2nd most common; Enclosed in hard or soft gelatin

powder or granules

Liquid

outdated; made from powdered plant or animal components; rolled with active ingredient and adhesive to make solid.

Dissolve in mouth; look like hard candy

Hard or gummy; same as lozenge

Can be taken externally by applying to the skin or internally by mixing with a drink

Designed to be inserted into a body cavity other than the mouth, including urethra, rectum, or vagina. Melt at body temperature for delivery.

Suppositories just for the vagina.

It is very easy to swallow

Short shelf life, often require refrigeration, and may need something to mask the taste

Solvent completely dissolves in solution

Solutions that contain syrups

Solutions containing alcohol

Require addition of water by the pharmacy; deteriorates rapidly in liquid form; must be shaken before use. Labels necessary

Mix of oil and water with emulsifying agents. Must be shaken because they will separate over time.

Combination of sugar and alcohol intended for oral use.

Substances that evaporate quickly and require airtight containers

Uses a gas in a liquid

Can deliver medication

Liquids that dry to form a flexible film that can be removed. Ex. New Skin

Medicationt that is swished, but not swallowed

Directly injected; preparation requires aseptic technique

Solutions meant to be put in a nebulizer for delivery

applied to skin or mucous membrane; thick and greasy

Easy to wash off and leaves skin dry

Used for large or hairy areas

Semisolid; rubbed on skin; texture of jelly

Solidifies to become impermeable to water

Release heat

Medication is absorbed through the skin from the tape and the skin is protected by the tape.

Have a reservoir of medication and release over time

Absorbed through the lungs; has very small particles

Object placed under the skin that delivers medication.

Medication is in gum and releases while chewed.

Solution sprayed up nose for either topical or systemic effect

Administers small, accurate dose to the eye or ear;eye must be prepared aseptically. Eye drops can be used in the ear.