What does "SL" indicate when administering medication?

The term "SL" stands for sublingual, which refers to a method of medication administration where the medication is placed underneath the tongue. This route is effective because the sublingual area has a rich blood supply, allowing for rapid absorption of the medication into the bloodstream. By bypassing the digestive system, sublingual medications can have a quicker onset of action compared to oral medications that must pass through the gastrointestinal tract.

Understanding the routes of medication administration, such as sublingual, is crucial for ensuring effective treatment and minimizing potential side effects. In this context, terms like intravenous, topical, and by mouth describe different routes that have distinct properties and effects, making sublingual the correct answer for the indication of "SL."