Drug administration routes

Drug administration routes is a term used in pharmacology to describe the various ways in which a drug can be introduced into the body. The route of administration is a key factor in determining the drug's pharmacokinetics, including its absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.

Pronunciation

• Drug: /drʌɡ/
• Administration: /ədˌmɪnɪˈstreɪʃ(ə)n/
• Routes: /ruːts/

Etymology

The term "drug" comes from the Old French "drogue", possibly derived from the Middle Dutch word "droge vate" meaning "dry barrels", referring to medicinal plants stored in them. "Administration" is derived from the Latin "administratio", meaning "a giving to". "Route" is from the Old French "route", meaning "way" or "path".

Related Terms

• Oral administration: This is the most common and convenient route, where the drug is swallowed and absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract.
• Intravenous administration: The drug is injected directly into the bloodstream, providing immediate and complete absorption.
• Subcutaneous administration: The drug is injected under the skin.
• Intramuscular administration: The drug is injected into a muscle, allowing for slower absorption and longer-lasting effects.
• Topical administration: The drug is applied directly to the skin or mucous membranes.
• Inhalation administration: The drug is inhaled and absorbed through the lungs.
• Rectal administration: The drug is inserted into the rectum, where it is absorbed by the rectal mucosa.
• Vaginal administration: The drug is inserted into the vagina, where it is absorbed by the vaginal mucosa.
• Ocular administration: The drug is applied to the eyes.
• Intranasal administration: The drug is sprayed or dropped into the nose.
• Sublingual administration: The drug is placed under the tongue, where it is absorbed by the mucous membranes.

See Also

• Pharmacokinetics
• Pharmacodynamics
• Bioavailability
• Drug metabolism

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