ch 11-13

Uniqueness of oral dosages

- preferred because they are easy to take

- absorbed through GI tract (S.I.)

- most common form is tablet

Pills that cannot be crushed

enteric coated or sustained or extended release

Parenteral

- outside the G.I. tract, given when meds cannot be taken by mouth or when rapid action is desired

- absorbed directly into bloodstream

- administed as liquids or powders

How can parenteral medications be administered?

1. subcutaneous injection: beneath the skin; in fat

2. intramuscular injection: within the muscle

3. intradermal injection: within the skin

4. intravenous injection: within the vein

Drugs administered in units:

1. epogen: drug that increases production of RBCs

2. heparin: anticoagulant that inhibits clotting of blood *high alert

3. insulin: hormone secreted by pancreas that lowers blood glucose *high alert

Insulin uniqueness

only regular insulin can be given intravenously