How do sublingual and buccal tablets differ in their absorption speed?

Sublingual tablets dissolve quickly and are designed to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the tissues under the tongue. This rapid absorption enables the medication to provide a faster onset of action, making it particularly beneficial for situations requiring immediate relief, such as angina.

On the other hand, buccal tablets are placed between the gum and the inner lining of the cheek. They typically dissolve more slowly than sublingual tablets and are intended for absorption through the buccal mucosa. This results in a slower onset of action compared to sublingual medications, which is why they are not used in situations where rapid relief is necessary.

The distinction in absorption rates is crucial for patients and healthcare providers to consider when choosing the appropriate form of medication based on the required speed of relief.