What is a disadvantage associated with parenteral medications?

Parenteral medications involve delivering drugs directly into the body via injections, which carries certain inherent risks. One primary disadvantage is the potential for infection. When a needle penetrates the skin, it creates an entry point that can allow bacteria to enter the body. If proper aseptic techniques are not followed, or if the injection site is not properly cleaned, there is a significant risk of introducing pathogens that can lead to localized infections or even systemic infections.

This risk underscores the importance of rigorous hygiene practices when administering parenteral medications and emphasizes the need for trained personnel to perform these procedures. Proper training in the administration of injections, combined with vigilance in maintaining sterility, can mitigate the risk, but it remains a fundamental concern when considering parenteral routes of medication delivery.

In contrast, other aspects such as ease of administration, absence of pain (when using certain techniques), and predictable absorption rates typically do not carry the same level of concern regarding safety and potential complications.