What is the term for the injection of medication into the subcutaneous tissue?

The term for the injection of medication into the subcutaneous tissue is "subcutaneous." This method involves administering a drug into the fat layer just beneath the skin. Subcutaneous injection is commonly used for the delivery of medications like insulin and certain vaccines, as it allows for slower absorption into the bloodstream compared to other injection methods, which can be beneficial for medications that require a steady and prolonged effect.

In contrast, intramuscular injections are delivered into muscle tissue, which allows for a faster absorption due to the rich blood supply in muscles. Intravenous injections deliver medication directly into the bloodstream, providing immediate effects and is often used in situations requiring rapid action or when high doses are required. Intradermal injections, on the other hand, target the dermal layer of the skin and are typically used for allergy tests or tuberculosis screening. Each of these methods has specific applications and absorption characteristics, clearly distinguishing them from subcutaneous injections.