Pharmacy Routes of Administration

10 Questions

Which route of administration is associated with the shortest onset of action?

Subcutaneous

Which opioid is commonly used via the transdermal route?

Buprenorphine

What is a potential disadvantage of transdermal opioid administration?

Limited application

Which opioid is commonly used via the intramuscular route?

Morphine

What is a potential complication of rectal opioid administration?

All of the above

What is a potential long-term psychological consequence of opioid use on a person's emotional state?

Mood swings and emotional instability

Which of the following is a potential social consequence of long-term opioid use?

Social withdrawal and isolation

What is a potential cognitive impairment associated with long-term opioid use?

Impaired concentration and processing speed

Which of the following is a potential consequence of prioritizing drug-seeking behavior over interpersonal relationships?

Increased feelings of guilt and shame

What is a potential co-occurring disorder associated with long-term opioid use?

Alcohol use disorder

Study Notes

Routes of Administration

Oral administration: convenient, but has a slow and irregular effect, taking 30-60 minutes for the effect to be seen (e.g. Pentazocine).

Inhalation

Fast-acting, with an effect seen in 8 seconds (e.g. Ether).
However, it can cause lung damage (Yadav, 2012, pp. 78-85).

Intravenous Injection

Fast-acting, with an effect seen in 15 seconds (e.g. Fentanyl).
Risks include overdose and infections.

Epidural Administration

Convenient, with an effect seen in 10-20 minutes (e.g. Meperidine).
Injects medication into the epidural space around the spinal nerves, but can cause nerve damage and be painful.

Subcutaneous Injection

Safer and easier than intravenous injection, with an effect seen in 5-10 minutes (e.g. Heroin).
Risks include infection.

Intramuscular Injection

Controlled, with an effect seen in 10-15 minutes (e.g. Morphine).
Can be painful.

Transdermal Administration

Convenient, with an effect seen in 15-20 minutes (e.g. Buprenorphine).
Limited application, with potential for misuse.

Rectal Administration

Convenient and easy, with an effect seen in 15-30 minutes (e.g. Hydromorphone).
Risks include irritation, ulceration, or infection.

Psychological Risks of Opioid Long-term Use

Mental health disorders are a risk, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Cognitive impairment can occur, leading to impaired decision-making abilities, concentration, problem-solving, and slowed processing speed

Emotional dysregulation can result in mood swings, irritability, and emotional instability
Social and interpersonal problems can arise, including social withdrawal, isolation, and conflict due to mood disturbances
Opioid use can lead to prioritization of drug-seeking behavior over interpersonal relations and connections

Psychological Distress and Co-occurring Disorders

Psychological distress can manifest as feelings of guilt, shame, self-blame, and increased risk of suicide
Co-occurring substance use disorders are also a risk, including disorders related to alcohol and other substances