An intramuscular injection of a drug that gives a slow, steady release of its active chemicals into the bloodstream. Release of the drug is slowed by the inclusion of substances such as oil or wax. The release of the active drug can be made to last for hours, days, or weeks. A depot injection is useful for patients who may not take their medication correctly. It also prevents the necessity of giving a series of injections over a short period. Hormonal contraceptives (see contraception, hormonal methods of), corticosteroid drugs, and antipsychotic drugs may be given by depot injection. Side effects may arise due to the uneven release of the drug into the bloodstream.
Depot injection |
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