Injekcija

An injection, or injekcija in several Slavic languages, is the act of introducing a liquid substance into the body using a syringe and needle or a similar device. In medical practice, injections deliver drugs, vaccines, anesthesia, or diagnostic agents. They can provide rapid onset, precise dosing, or targeted delivery to specific tissues. Injekcija represents one of several routes of administration, alongside oral, topical, and inhaled methods.

Common routes include intramuscular (into a muscle), subcutaneous (into fatty tissue), intravenous (into a vein), and intradermal (into the skin). Less common or more specialized routes include intrathecal (into the spinal canal) and intra-articular (into a joint). The choice depends on the drug’s properties, desired speed of action, and clinical context. Vaccines, antibiotics, hormones, and pain medications are frequently administered by injection.

Typical equipment consists of a sterile syringe, needle or a needle-free device, and appropriate sharps disposal. Injections require aseptic technique and dosing accuracy. Potential risks include infection, bleeding, allergic reactions, nerve or tissue damage, and needle-stick injuries to healthcare workers. Storage and handling guidelines apply to medications, and some substances require refrigeration or protection from light. Self-administration is possible for certain medications using auto-injectors or insulin pens under medical instruction.

Vaccination is one of the most common uses of injections, protecting against infectious diseases. Injections also enable rapid systemic delivery of drugs, anesthesia for procedures, and diagnostic testing through substances like contrast agents or tuberculin. The practice is governed by medical guidelines to ensure safety, efficacy, and patient comfort.