What does the abbreviation "bu" refer to when administering medication?

The abbreviation "bu" stands for "buccal," which refers to a method of administering medication through the mucous membrane of the cheek or gums. This route allows for the drug to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system, which can be advantageous for certain medications that require rapid absorption or that are sensitive to stomach acid. Buccal administration is often used for drugs intended to have a quick onset of action, such as certain pain relievers or hormone therapies.

Other methods of administration, such as those denoted by the other options, pertain to different routes: "right eye" refers specifically to ocular administration, "intravenous" involves delivering medications directly into the bloodstream through a vein, and "subcutaneous" means injecting medication into the layer of fat beneath the skin. Each of these routes has its specific clinical implications and uses, making "buccal" distinct in its direct absorption method.