Depot injection

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Depot Injection is a method of drug administration that involves injecting a drug into a tissue, typically muscle, where it is stored and gradually released over time. This method is often used for medications that need to be administered less frequently than would be feasible with other routes of administration.

Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]

Depot injections work by creating a drug reservoir in the tissue where the drug is injected. The drug is typically formulated in a way that allows it to be released slowly over time, often over a period of weeks or months. This slow release allows for a sustained level of the drug in the body, reducing the need for frequent administration.

Uses[edit | edit source]

Depot injections are used for a variety of medications, including antipsychotics, hormones, and contraceptives. They are particularly useful for medications that need to be administered on a regular basis, as they can reduce the frequency of administration and improve patient compliance.

Advantages and Disadvantages[edit | edit source]

Advantages of depot injections include the ability to maintain a steady level of the drug in the body, improved patient compliance, and reduced risk of overdose. However, they also have some disadvantages, including the potential for injection site reactions, the inability to quickly stop the effects of the drug if adverse reactions occur, and the need for healthcare professionals to administer the injection.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Depot injection Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD