Which route is used for delivering medication through a patch on the skin to yield longer-lasting effects?

Which route is used for delivering medication through a patch on the skin to yield longer-lasting effects?

• A. Transdermal
• B. Inhalation
• C. Intranasal
• D. Oral administration

Answer: (A)

This question tests understanding of sustained drug delivery via a skin patch. Transdermal delivery uses a patch applied to the skin to release medication gradually, allowing it to be absorbed over an extended period and produce longer-lasting effects. Because the drug crosses the skin and enters the bloodstream, this route can maintain more constant plasma levels and reduce the need for frequent dosing. It also avoids the stomach and first-pass liver metabolism, which helps with consistent effect. Inhalation, intranasal, and oral routes deliver drugs differently and typically don’t rely on a skin patch for prolonged effect. Inhalation provides rapid onset through the lungs, intranasal uses nasal mucosa for quick absorption, and oral administration goes through the GI tract and liver, often with more variable absorption and a shorter duration for many drugs. Transdermal patches are specifically designed for controlled, extended release, leveraging the skin as a reservoir and barrier.

This question tests understanding of sustained drug delivery via a skin patch. Transdermal delivery uses a patch applied to the skin to release medication gradually, allowing it to be absorbed over an extended period and produce longer-lasting effects. Because the drug crosses the skin and enters the bloodstream, this route can maintain more constant plasma levels and reduce the need for frequent dosing. It also avoids the stomach and first-pass liver metabolism, which helps with consistent effect.

Inhalation, intranasal, and oral routes deliver drugs differently and typically don’t rely on a skin patch for prolonged effect. Inhalation provides rapid onset through the lungs, intranasal uses nasal mucosa for quick absorption, and oral administration goes through the GI tract and liver, often with more variable absorption and a shorter duration for many drugs. Transdermal patches are specifically designed for controlled, extended release, leveraging the skin as a reservoir and barrier.