What is a troche?

A troche is a type of dosage form that is designed to dissolve slowly in the mouth in order to facilitate absorption of medication through the oral mucosa. Troches are typically flat, round tablets that are made from a combination of active ingredients, fillers, and binders. They are often flavored to improve taste and may also contain sweetening agents to make them more palatable.

Troches are commonly used for medications that are not well-absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract, such as certain hormones, antifungal agents, and pain relievers. They are also used for medications that are better absorbed through the oral mucosa, such as certain medications for hormone replacement therapy or erectile dysfunction.

Troches are typically placed in the mouth and allowed to dissolve slowly, usually over a period of 15-30 minutes. This allows the medication to be absorbed directly through the mucous membranes of the mouth and enter the bloodstream quickly, bypassing the liver and gastrointestinal tract.

Overall, troches are a convenient and effective way to deliver medications that require rapid absorption or are poorly absorbed through the digestive system. They are commonly used in compounding pharmacies to tailor medications to an individual's specific needs.