Routes of Administration

Route of Administration

The path by which a drug or vaccine is delivered to the body, such as oral, intravenous, intramuscular, or subcutaneous.

Enteral

Any drug given through the digestive system, such as oral or rectal.

Parenteral

Drugs given by any route except the digestive system, including ophthalmic, otic, nasal, buccal, inhalation, dermal, intradermal, subcutaneous, and intramuscular.

Intradermal

Administration into the top layer of skin, commonly at a 15 degree angle, often in the anterior forearm.

Subcutaneous

Administration into the fat layer under the skin, commonly at a 45 degree angle, often in the back of the upper arm, front of the thigh, or abdomen.

Intramuscular

Administration into muscle tissue, typically at a 90 degree angle, commonly in the upper arm, hip, or buttocks.

Otic

Administration of drugs in the ear.

Nasal

Administration of drugs to the nose.

Buccal

Administration of drugs between the gum and cheek.

Ophthalmic

Administration of drugs in the eye.

Inhalation

Administration of drugs into the lungs.

Oral

Administration of drugs that are swallowed or chewed.

Rectal

Administration of drugs through the anus.

Dermal

Administration of drugs on the skin.