Which route is commonly used in emergencies for quick absorption by placing the drug under the tongue?

• A. Intramuscular
• B. Sublingual
• C. Oral
• D. Intranasal

Answer: (B)

Sublingual administration allows rapid absorption because the drug is placed under the tongue where the mucous membranes are highly vascular. The drug dissolves and passes directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive tract and first-pass metabolism by the liver, which speeds onset. This is ideal in emergencies when a quick systemic effect is needed, such as nitroglycerin given under the tongue for chest pain. While intranasal routes can also be fast, the under-tongue route is specifically designed for rapid absorption through the oral mucosa. Oral and intramuscular routes generally take longer to achieve peak effect or are subject to metabolic processes that slow onset, making them less suitable for immediate emergency needs.