What are the drug forms that dissolve in the mouth called?

Drugs that dissolve in the mouth are often referred to as buccal tablets and transmucosal oral tablets. This designation refers specifically to their method of action and delivery; they are designed to be absorbed through the mucous membranes in the mouth, allowing for rapid absorption into the bloodstream without needing to undergo first-pass metabolism in the liver.

Buccal tablets are placed between the gum and cheek, where they dissolve and the drug is absorbed through the buccal mucosa. Transmucosal tablets, on the other hand, dissolve on the tongue or other areas of the mouth, allowing for systemic absorption. This form of drug delivery can be beneficial for patients who have difficulty swallowing or when rapid onset of action is necessary.

Lozenges also dissolve in the mouth, but they are typically flavored and are used primarily for soothing the throat rather than for systemic drug delivery. Oral tablets and capsules are not designed to dissolve in the mouth but are instead intended for swallowing whole, where they dissolve in the stomach or intestines. Therefore, the correct choice emphasizes the specific types of formulations designed for dissolution and absorption in the oral cavity.