Alternative Routes of Drug Administration—Advantages and Disadvantages (Subject Review)

This Policy Statement was retired May 2011. During the past 20 years, advances in drug formulations and innovative routes of administration have been made. Our understanding of drug transport across tissues has increased. These changes have often resulted in improved patient adherence to the therapeutic regimen and pharmacologic response. The administration of drugs by transdermal or transmucosal routes offers the advantage of being relatively painless.12 Also, the potential for greater flexibility in a variety of clinical situations exists, often precluding the need to establish intravenous access, which is a particular benefit for children. This statement focuses on the advantages and disadvantages of alternative routes of drug administration. Issues of particular importance in the care of pediatric patients, especially factors that could lead to drug-related toxicity or adverse responses, are emphasized.