What is a common method of administering medication via the mouth?

Administering medication via the mouth commonly involves the sublingual route. This method allows medications to be placed under the tongue, where they can dissolve and be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the mucous membranes. This route is advantageous because it often provides a faster onset of action compared to oral administration, which requires swallowing and digestion first.

In contrast, other methods listed serve different purposes: the otic route pertains to the administration of medications in the ear; the vaginal route involves delivering medication through the vaginal canal; while topical administration is for applying medications directly onto the skin. Each of these routes serves specific applications and is used based on the medication's intended effect and the patient's condition.