What is the purpose of the subcutaneous route?

The purpose of the subcutaneous route is to inject drugs into the tissues between the skin and muscle. This method is commonly used for administering certain medications, such as insulin or some vaccines, which are absorbed slowly and steadily into the bloodstream from the fatty tissue. The subcutaneous layer provides a beneficial reservoir for medication that requires a more gradual absorption rate compared to intravenous or intramuscular routes. By injecting into this layer, the medication can often produce a prolonged effect and reduce the frequency of administration needed.

The other options suggest different routes or forms of medication delivery that are not representative of the subcutaneous method. For instance, delivering medication in lozenge form pertains to oral routes, while administering a solution directly into the bloodstream describes intravenous delivery. Placing medication under the tongue refers to the sublingual route, which allows for rapid absorption but does not involve the subcutaneous tissue. Understanding these distinctions is essential for proper medication administration and ensuring effective treatment outcomes.