Physostigmine, 1,2,3,3a,8,8a-hexahydro-1,3a,8-trimethylpyrrolo[2,3-b] indol-5ol methylcarbamate, administered buccally or sublingually in non-sustained release dosage form provides extremely prolonged blood levels. This active agent is physically compounded with materials of some or all of classes of ingredients that function as pH controls, preservative agents, viscosity control agents, absorption enhancers, stabilizing agents, solvents, and carrier vehicles. This compounding will produce a pharmaceutical composition in the form of a liquid, tablet, gel, patch or lozenge for administration of the active agent, Physostigmine, by absorption through the buccal or sublingual mucosa of the patient. This method of delivery of Physostigmine and similar compounds is useful for treatment of cognitive deficiencies and / or neurological function deficits, mood and / or mental disturbances in mammals including human beings.