What does NG stand for in pharmacology?

In pharmacology, NG refers to "naso gastric," which pertains to the medical practice of delivering medications or nutrients directly to the stomach through a tube. This method is particularly useful for patients who are unable to take medications or food orally due to various reasons, such as swallowing difficulties or certain medical conditions.

The nasogastric tube is inserted through the nose and down the esophagus into the stomach, allowing for direct administration of substances while bypassing the mouth and throat. This approach can enhance the absorption of certain medications that may be degraded by stomach acid or need to be delivered in a specific manner.

By contrast, the other terms mentioned refer to different routes of administration. For example, "by mouth/oral" describes medications taken through the oral cavity, while "cheek/gum" would pertain to buccal administration, and "sublingual" indicates a route where substances are placed under the tongue for rapid absorption. Each of these routes serves distinct purposes and is chosen based on the needs of the patient and the characteristics of the medication being administered.