Intraperitoneal injection

Intraperitoneal injection (pronunciation: in-tra-per-i-to-ne-al in-jek-shun) is a route of administration for drugs and other substances. This method involves injecting a substance directly into the peritoneal cavity, an area that houses vital organs such as the liver, stomach, and intestines.

Etymology

The term "intraperitoneal" comes from the Latin words "intra," meaning "within," and "peritoneum," referring to the membrane that lines the abdominal cavity.

Procedure

Intraperitoneal injection is commonly used in laboratory research for the administration of substances to animals. The procedure involves the use of a syringe and needle to inject a substance into the peritoneal cavity. The substance is then absorbed into the bloodstream through the peritoneum, allowing it to circulate throughout the body.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Intraperitoneal injection offers several advantages over other routes of administration. It allows for the rapid absorption of substances, making it useful for situations where quick action is required. However, it also has several disadvantages, including the potential for injury to internal organs and the risk of infection.

Related Terms

Peritoneum: The membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and covers the organs within it.
Route of administration: The path by which a drug or other substance is taken into the body.
Absorption (pharmacology): The process by which a drug or other substance enters the body and circulates through the bloodstream.