f. Gargles--for use in the mouth and throat.
g. Inhalations or Aerosols--to be vaporized and inhaled into the respiratory tract.
h. Injections--for injection, by hypodermic needle and syringe, beneath the skin.
i.
Sprays and Drops--solutions are sprayed or dropped on affected areas.
j.
Washes--for application to the skin for their local effect.
3-3.
ADVANTAGES OF SOLUTIONS
The advantages of solutions are:
a. They are easily administered (especially as oral medication for children).
b. They provide uniform dosage since they are uniform preparations.
c. They are easy to measure if accurate measuring instruments are used.
d. They are usually pleasing in appearance to the patient because of their color
and clarity.
e. They have a more rapid onset of action, when administered orally, than
tablets or capsules.
NOTE:
Tablets and capsules must disintegrate or dissolve before they can become
effective.
3-4.
DISADVANTAGES OF SOLUTIONS
The disadvantages of solutions are:
a. The tastes of medications in solution are more pronounced. Some are almost
impossible to overcome.
b. There is a possibility of rapid deterioration and chemical reaction in solutions.
c. Inaccurate measurements may result when using inaccurate measuring
instruments such as teaspoons.
NOTE:
Not all teaspoons will measure the same volume of fluid.)
d. Solutions are more difficult to store and carry than solid preparations.
MD0809
3-4