An intramuscular injection deposits medication into well-perfused muscle tissue. The vascularity of muscle aids the rapid absorption of the medication into the systemic circulation. Intramuscular injections are used to deliver medications that would otherwise be absorbed too slowly or made ineffective if taken orally; when intravenous access is difficult; or if other routes are contraindicated. The intramuscular route should not be used in cases where muscle size and condition is not adequate to support sufficient uptake of the drug. Intra muscular injections are of limited use in patients who have impaired peripheral circulation and oedema. Intramuscular injections should be avoided where possible in patients with thrombocytopenia or impaired clotting.
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