Which route of administration involves injecting medication within the muscle?

The route of administration that involves injecting medication within the muscle is intramuscular. This method allows for faster absorption of the medication compared to subcutaneous injections because muscle tissue has a better blood supply. Medications administered intramuscularly can take effect quickly, making this route particularly useful for vaccines, hormones, and certain antibiotics.

In this route, the injection is typically done in specific muscle groups, such as the deltoid in the arm or the gluteus maximus in the buttock. This approach is beneficial for delivering larger volumes of medication that may not be suitable for other routes, as well as for medications that benefit from deeper absorption.

Buccal administration involves placing a drug between the gums and cheek for absorption through the oral mucosa, while intravenous administration involves injecting directly into the bloodstream for rapid effects. Subcutaneous administration consists of injecting into the fatty tissue beneath the skin. Each of these routes serves specific clinical purposes and differs significantly from the intramuscular method.