szublingvális

Szublingvális is the Hungarian term meaning sublingual, derived from Latin sublingualis. In medicine, the sublingual route refers to drug administration by placing a dosage form under the tongue to dissolve and be absorbed through the oral mucosa directly into the systemic circulation, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract and hepatic first-pass metabolism.

Absorption occurs across the rich vascularization of the under-tongue mucosa, leading to relatively rapid onset for suitable compounds. The amount absorbed can vary with saliva flow, mucosal integrity, and the physicochemical properties of the drug; some portion may be swallowed and subjected to gastric and hepatic metabolism.

Common applications include nitroglycerin tablets for acute angina, and other analgesics such as certain fentanyl and buprenorphine formulations. Sublingual immunotherapy uses allergen solutions placed under the tongue to induce tolerance. Sublingual vitamins and micronutrients are marketed, though their superiority to oral forms is variable and often debated.

Forms include sublingual tablets, sprays, and solutions or drops. Administration generally involves placing the dosage under the tongue and allowing it to dissolve without chewing, avoiding swallowing for a short period, and not drinking or eating immediately after to maximize absorption. It is not suitable for all drugs, especially those unstable in saliva or poorly absorbed via mucosa, and absorption can be inconsistent in some patients.

Advantages include rapid onset and avoidance of first-pass liver metabolism; limits on volume and palatability can be constraints. Potential drawbacks include mucosal irritation, local taste disturbances, and variability due to salivary conditions.

See also: buccal administration, transmucosal routes, first-pass metabolism.