Transdermal administration allows medication to be absorbed through what?

Transdermal administration involves the delivery of medication through the skin, which is the largest organ of the body. When a transdermal patch or similar formulation is applied, the medication in it is absorbed across the epidermis and into the systemic circulation. This method provides a continuous, controlled release of medication over an extended period, which can maintain stable drug levels in the bloodstream and minimize fluctuations associated with other methods of administration.

The transdermal route is particularly beneficial for drugs that require a prolonged effect without the need for frequent dosing, such as hormone replacements or pain management medications. This method is also advantageous for patients who may have difficulty swallowing or who prefer a non-invasive route.

The other options describe different routes of drug administration that do not apply to transdermal delivery. Mucous membranes are involved in routes such as sublingual or buccal administration, intravenous pathways refer to injections directly into the bloodstream, and the gastrointestinal tract is relevant for oral medications. Each of these routes has distinct mechanisms and purposes that separate them from how transdermal medications function.