What does the abbreviation "SL" stand for in medication terminology?

The abbreviation "SL" in medication terminology stands for "Sublingual." This refers to a method of drug administration where the medication is placed under the tongue, allowing it to dissolve and be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the tissues there. This route is often utilized for medications that need to take effect quickly or to bypass the digestive system, thereby avoiding first-pass metabolism in the liver. Sublingual medications can be particularly beneficial for patients who have difficulty swallowing pills or those who require rapid relief from symptoms, such as in the case of nitroglycerin for chest pain. Understanding this term is essential for CRMA practice, as it impacts how medications are administered and how they will act in the body.