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List 5 methods of drug administration.

Define each method.

1 answer

Here are five methods of drug administration, along with their definitions:

  1. Oral Administration:

    • Definition: Oral administration involves taking a medication by mouth, allowing it to dissolve in the gastrointestinal tract and be absorbed into the bloodstream. This is the most common route for drug delivery and can include forms such as tablets, capsules, and liquids. The onset of action may be slower compared to other methods due to the need for digestion and absorption.

  2. Intravenous (IV) Administration:

    • Definition: Intravenous administration involves delivering a drug directly into the bloodstream via a vein. This method allows for rapid onset of action and precise control of drug levels. It is often used in emergency situations or for medications that require immediate effects or consistent plasma concentrations.

  3. Intramuscular (IM) Administration:

    • Definition: Intramuscular administration involves injecting a drug directly into a muscle. The drug is absorbed through the muscle tissue and enters the bloodstream. This method allows for a faster absorption compared to oral administration and is often used for vaccines and certain medications that require sustained release.

  4. Subcutaneous (SC) Administration:

    • Definition: Subcutaneous administration involves injecting a drug into the fatty tissue beneath the skin. This route allows for slower absorption than IM administration and is used for some hormones, vaccines, and medications that need to release gradually over time.

  5. Topical Administration:

    • Definition: Topical administration involves applying a drug directly onto the skin or mucous membranes. This method is used for localized effects, such as creams, ointments, and gels, which target specific areas (e.g., for pain relief or skin conditions). Some topical formulations can also be absorbed systematically, such as transdermal patches for hormones or analgesics.

Each of these methods has its own advantages, disadvantages, and applications based on the properties of the drug being administered and the desired therapeutic effects.