Chapter 7

Routes of Drug Administration

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Intramuscular (IM)

Advantages:

Larger volume than SC can be given by IM. They may be easier to administer than IV injections.

A depot or sustained release effect is possible with IM injections, e.g. procaine penicillin.

Disadvantages:

Trained personnel required for injections. The site of injection will influence the absorption, generally the deltoid muscle provides faster and more complete absorption.

Absorption can be rapid from aqueous solution. Absorption is sometimes erratic, especially for poorly soluble drugs, e.g. diazepam, phenytoin. The solvent maybe absorbed faster than the drug causing precipitation of the drug at the site of injection.

Irritiating drug may be painful.

Figure 7.7.1 Typical Plot of Cp versus Time after Intramuscular Administration


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