What is the Origin of Buccal Systems?

The term "buccal" derives from the Latin word bucca, meaning cheek, clearly indicating the anatomical location of drug application. The development of buccal delivery systems is rooted in pharmaceutical science, seeking to exploit the highly vascularized nature of the oral cavity for improved bioavailability of medications. For hormones, this method addresses challenges related to degradation and erratic absorption encountered with traditional oral dosing.

What is the Mechanism of Buccal Systems?

Hormones delivered via buccal systems are absorbed directly into the systemic circulation through the capillaries underlying the buccal epithelium. This transmucosal absorption minimizes the degradation of the hormone by digestive enzymes and avoids the initial metabolic breakdown in the liver, known as the first-pass effect. The mechanism allows for a direct, efficient delivery, often leading to a more stable and therapeutically effective plasma concentration profile.

Buccal Systems ∞ Area

Buccal Systems

Meaning

Buccal systems refer to drug delivery methods that utilize the buccal mucosa—the lining of the cheek—for the systemic absorption of therapeutic agents, including certain hormones. This route offers a non-invasive alternative to injections or oral ingestion, effectively bypassing the gastrointestinal tract and first-pass hepatic metabolism. It is often employed in hormone replacement therapy to achieve more predictable and rapid systemic hormone levels.