Parenteralt

Parenteralt is the adjective form used in some languages (for example Swedish and Norwegian) to describe parenteral administration, which refers to delivering substances by routes that bypass the gastrointestinal tract, typically via injection or infusion through the skin or mucous membranes. The term is used in medicine to describe drug delivery as well as nutrition supplied by non-oral means. Parenteralt administration is chosen when oral administration is not feasible or would be ineffective due to absorption issues, vomiting, coma, or the need for rapid action, and it includes intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous, and other specialized routes.

Common routes of parenteral delivery include intravenous (IV), intramuscular (IM), subcutaneous (SC), intradermal (ID), and, less commonly, intrathecal (into the spinal canal) or intra-articular. Each route has specific onset, duration, and risk profiles, and formulations must be prepared to maintain sterility.

Parenteral routes are used to deliver medications, fluids, electrolytes, and nutrients where the GI tract is bypassed. In critical care, parenteral medications provide rapid titration and control. Parenteral nutrition (PN), also known as total parenteral nutrition, supplies glucose, amino acids, lipids, vitamins, and trace elements through a venous catheter, typically a central venous line; short-term PN via peripheral veins is possible but limited by osmolarity.

Safety and monitoring are essential: procedures require aseptic technique, trained staff, and monitoring for catheter-related complications, metabolic disturbances, and infusion reactions. Potential risks include infection, phlebitis, air embolism, extravasation, and electrolyte imbalances. The choice of parenteral therapy balances the need for non-oral delivery against risks and patient circumstances.