Sublingual Route for the Systemic Delivery of Drugs

Abstract

Sublingual delivery is one of the most effective alternate routes when compared with the oral drug delivery. A small amount of saliva is needed for complete disintegration of the sublingual tablets which shows more potent action and bioavailability. Sublingual route is more suitable for the geriatric and pediatric patients as they find it difficult for swallowing the oral dosage forms. The drug absorbed through the sublingual route bypasses the hepatic first–pass metabolism thus enhancing more bioavailability with lower doses and lower side effects.  Relative thinness and rich blood supply of the sublingual mucous membrane provides a unique opportunity for systemic delivery of such drugs. Many pharmaceuticals are designed for sublingual administration, including cardiovascular drugs, steroids, barbiturates, enzymes, and increasingly, vitamins and minerals.