Systemic drug delivery via the buccal mucosal route

Abstract

Within the oral mucosal cavity, the buccal region offers an attractive route of administration for systemic drug delivery. The mucosa has a rich blood supply and is permeable to many pharmacologically active agents. The objective of this article is to review buccal drug delivery by discussing the structure and environment of the oral mucosa and highlighting the experimental methods used in the assessment of buccal drug permeation and absorption. The review also assesses the current status of buccal permeation enhancers as well as buccal drug delivery systems.