IM and IV are abbreviations for intramuscular and intravenous, respectively. They are both methods of administering medication through injections.
- Intramuscular (IM) injections deliver medication directly into a muscle, typically the deltoid (shoulder), gluteus maximus (buttocks), or vastus lateralis (thigh). IM injections allow for a faster absorption rate compared to subcutaneous injections but slower than IV injections.
- Intravenous (IV) injections deliver medication directly into a vein. IV injections are the fastest method of administering medication, bypassing the digestive system and entering the bloodstream immediately.
Both methods are commonly used for various medical purposes, including vaccinations, pain relief, and treating infections. The choice of route depends on the medication type, its intended effect, and the patient's health condition.
