parenteralen

Parenteral refers to administration methods that bypass the gastrointestinal tract, delivering substances directly into body tissues or the circulatory system. It is used for drugs, fluids, and nutrients that would be ineffective or unsafe if given orally and includes several routes.

Common routes include intravenous (into a vein), subcutaneous (under the skin), intramuscular (into a muscle), intradermal (within the skin), intrathecal (into the cerebrospinal fluid), epidural, intraosseous, and, less commonly, intra-arterial administration. Each route has specific indications, onset times, and risks, and the choice depends on factors such as required speed of effect, volume, and patient condition.

Indications: when rapid systemic effect is needed; when the GI tract cannot absorb or tolerate substances; for continuous or precise dosing; for drugs that are degraded in the gut; for anesthesia, analgesia, antibiotics, chemotherapy, vaccines, hydration, and parenteral nutrition.

Parenteral nutrition (total or partial) is used when enteral feeding is not possible or insufficient. It provides calories, proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals via central venous or peripheral access. It carries risks including infection, thrombosis, catheter-related complications, metabolic disturbances, and liver dysfunction; monitoring and careful formulation are essential.

Preparation and administration require sterile technique, proper asepsis, and appropriate equipment such as sterile syringes, IV catheters, infusion pumps, and compatible solutions. Pharmacists and clinicians ensure compatibility, stability, dosing, and monitoring for adverse reactions.