Intravenous route
From Ganfyd
Advantages
- Allows rapid and more predictable delivery of drugs.
- In some drugs, allows higher doses than would be tolerated orally.
- Bypasses first-pass metabolism.
- Not depedent on gut function or muscle perfusion (cf. intramuscular route).
- Allows administration of large volumes, e.g. intravenous fluids
Disadvantages
- Requires indwelling device with attendent complications associated with insertion.
- Requires trained professional to administer drug.
- Danger of extravasation.
- Phlebitis if irritant drugs.
- Risk of excessively rapid administration of certain drugs, e.g. intravenous fluids, gentamicin, frusemide, etc.
