What function does the hypodermis serve in drug delivery systems?

The hypodermis, also known as the subcutaneous layer, serves as an essential reservoir for medications in drug delivery systems. This layer consists mainly of loose connective tissue and fat cells, which provide not only insulation and cushioning but also a large surface area for the absorption of drugs.

When medications are administered via methods such as subcutaneous injections, they can be deposited into the hypodermis, where the fat cells can facilitate the slow and controlled release of the drug into the bloodstream. This mechanism allows for sustained therapeutic effects and can optimize drug absorption rates, making it particularly useful for delivering certain types of medications, including hormones and vaccines.

Other potential options may discuss the protective roles of the skin or its structural properties, but they do not directly address the specific function of drug storage and release that the hypodermis provides in drug delivery systems.