Difference between Local and Systemic Drug Administration

The route of administration, absorption site, and bioavailability of the drug from the dosage form are major factors in the design of a drug product.


Local Drug Administration

It is one of the simplest routes of drug administration, wherein the drug can be given at the desired site of action. Drugs intended for local activity such as topical antibiotics, anti-infectives, antifungal agents, and local anesthetics are formulated in dosage forms that minimize systemic absorption. The concentration of these drugs at the application site affects their activity.


Systemic Drug Administration

When systemic absorption is desired, the bioavailability of the drug from the dosage form at the absorption site must be considered (e.g., a drug given intravenously is 100% bioavailable because all of the drug is placed directly into the systemic circulation). The amount, or dose, of drug in the dosage form is based on the extent of drug absorption and the desired systemic drug concentration. The type of dosage form (e.g., immediate release, controlled release) affects the rate of drug absorption. Broadly, this route can be divided into enteral, parenteral, and specialized drug delivery.


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