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Hi class

1. Oral Administration Definition: Drugs are taken by mouth in the form of tablets, capsules, liquids, or powders. They are absorbed through the digestive system into the bloodstream.

2. Intravenous (IV) Administration Definition Drugs are injected directly into a vein using a syringe or IV drip. This allows the medication to enter the bloodstream immediately for quick effect.

3. Intramuscular (IM) Administration Definition: Drugs are injected into a muscle, usually in the arm, thigh, or glute. This method allows the drug to be absorbed into the bloodstream more slowly than IV administration.

4. Subcutaneous (SC) Administration Definition: Drugs are injected into the tissue layer just under the skin. It provides a slower release of medication into the bloodstream.

5. Topical Administration Definition: Drugs are applied directly to the skin or mucous membranes (creams, ointments, or patches). The medication acts locally at the site of application or may be absorbed into the bloodstream.

1 answer

Hello class,

Today, we will be discussing various methods of drug administration. Here’s a brief overview of each method:

  1. Oral Administration: This method involves taking drugs by mouth in forms such as tablets, capsules, liquids, or powders. The drug is absorbed through the digestive system and then enters the bloodstream. It's one of the most convenient and common methods of administration.

  2. Intravenous (IV) Administration: In this method, drugs are injected directly into a vein using a syringe or an IV drip. This allows the medication to enter the bloodstream immediately, providing rapid effects, which is particularly useful in emergency situations or for medications requiring precise dosing.

  3. Intramuscular (IM) Administration: Drugs are injected into a muscle, commonly in the arm, thigh, or gluteus. This method allows for slower absorption into the bloodstream compared to IV administration, making it suitable for vaccines and certain medications that need to be released gradually.

  4. Subcutaneous (SC) Administration: This involves injecting drugs into the tissue layer just beneath the skin. The release of medication into the bloodstream occurs more slowly than with IM or IV routes, making it suitable for medications such as insulin or certain biologics.

  5. Topical Administration: In this method, drugs are applied directly to the skin or mucous membranes (such as creams, ointments, or patches). Depending on the formulation, the medication may work locally at the site of application or may be absorbed into the bloodstream for systemic effects.

Understanding these different administration routes is crucial for effective treatment and management of patients. If you have any questions or would like to discuss specific examples, feel free to ask!