ABSTRACT
This chapter addresses the parenteral drug delivery devices that are available and the trends of existing technology in the field. It describes the factors which determine the necessity of exact dosage as well as those which affect the flow of the infusion. The need for good practices in storage and handling of parenteral drugs or infusions is an important factor and should be appropriately emphasized. The intra-arterial route is employed generally for diagnostic purposes, such as injecting contrast media for roentgenographic studies of the vascular supply of various organs or tissues. Many of the precautions concerning the use of the intraventricular route are applicable to the use of the intracisternal route, particularly as regards aseptic practices and the threat of physicochemical irritation of the substances injected. The intramuscular route is preferred over the subcutaneous route when a rapid rate of absorption is desired life-threatening conditions. The intra-abdominal route of administration can cause a serious abdominal infection and hemorrhage.
