If a physician prescribes a buccal medication, how should the patient take it?

When a physician prescribes buccal medication, the proper method of administration is to place the medication between the lower teeth and the cheek. This allows the medication to dissolve and be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes in the mouth. This route bypasses the digestive system, leading to faster onset of action compared to oral medications that must be swallowed and digested.

In contrast, swallowing it whole with water is not appropriate for buccal medications, as this would prevent the intended absorption route. Putting the medication under the tongue pertains to sublingual medications, which is a different administration method. Chewing the tablet before swallowing also goes against the intended use of buccal medications, as it could alter the absorption characteristics and effectiveness of the medication.