intramuskular

Intramuskular refers to an injection administered directly into a muscle. This method of drug delivery allows for faster absorption compared to subcutaneous or oral administration because muscles have a rich blood supply. Common injection sites include the deltoid muscle of the upper arm, the vastus lateralis muscle of the thigh, and the gluteal muscles of the buttocks.

Intramuscular injections are used to administer various medications, including vaccines, antibiotics, pain relievers, and hormones. The volume of fluid that can be injected intramuscularly depends on the size of the muscle, with larger muscles generally accommodating larger volumes. Proper technique, including selecting the correct needle size and angle, is crucial to ensure the medication is delivered effectively into the muscle tissue and to minimize pain and potential complications like nerve damage or infection.

The rate of absorption from an intramuscular injection can vary depending on the specific muscle used, the properties of the drug, and the formulation of the medication. Factors such as blood flow to the muscle and the presence of fat tissue can also influence absorption speed. Intramuscular injections are a common and effective route for administering medications that are not well absorbed orally or that require a relatively rapid onset of action.