Topical administration
Topical administration is a method of drug administration where a drug is applied directly onto a particular area of the skin. The drug is then absorbed through the skin and into the bloodstream. This method is often used for local effects, but can also be used for systemic effects.
Pronunciation
Topical administration is pronounced as "top-i-kal ad-min-is-tra-tion".
Etymology
The term "topical" comes from the Greek word "topikos", which means "of a place". The term "administration" comes from the Latin word "administratio", which means "management" or "control".
Related Terms
- Transdermal administration: This is a method of drug administration where the drug is applied to the skin and absorbed into the bloodstream for systemic effects.
- Dermal administration: This is a method of drug administration where the drug is applied to the skin for local effects.
- Cutaneous administration: This is a method of drug administration where the drug is applied to the skin, either for local effects or for systemic effects.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Topical administration has several advantages. It allows for targeted drug delivery, which can reduce the risk of systemic side effects. It also allows for the use of drugs that would be inactivated or destroyed in the digestive tract if taken orally.
However, topical administration also has some disadvantages. The skin can act as a barrier to drug absorption, and not all drugs can be effectively absorbed through the skin. In addition, the rate of absorption can be affected by factors such as the condition of the skin and the formulation of the drug.
See Also
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