What is the term for methods of drug administration that do not utilize the digestive system?

The term that refers to methods of drug administration that do not utilize the digestive system is parenteral. This method involves delivering medications directly into the body, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract entirely. Common parenteral routes include injections such as intramuscular, intravenous, and subcutaneous routes, which are designed for rapid absorption of the medication into the bloodstream.

Topical administration refers to medications applied directly to the skin or mucous membranes, mainly affecting localized areas without entering systemic circulation through the digestive system, but it does not categorize as parenteral because it doesn't involve an invasive method.

Sublingual refers specifically to placing a medication under the tongue, allowing it to dissolve and be absorbed directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive tract. While it does avoid the digestive system, it is a specific route that is not as broad as parenteral.

Inhalation involves administering drugs through the respiratory tract, where they are absorbed via the lungs. Like sublingual, inhalation avoids the digestive system, but it specifically targets the respiratory route rather than serving as a general term for all non-digestive methods.

Thus, parenteral is the most encompassing term for any administration method that excludes the gastrointestinal system altogether.