What is the correct route for a medication described as "intravenous"?

When a medication is described as "intravenous," it means that the drug is administered directly into the bloodstream through a vein. This route allows for rapid onset of action, as the medication enters the circulatory system immediately. Intravenous administration is often used in hospital settings for delivering fluids, nutrients, and medications when quick efficacy is needed, or when patients cannot take medications by mouth.

The other routes listed, such as subcutaneous (under the skin), intramuscular (into the muscle), and oral administration (by mouth), do not involve directly delivering the medication into the bloodstream. Subcutaneous injections are used for slower absorption, while intramuscular injections are absorbed at variable rates depending on the muscle and the formulation of the medication. Oral administration requires the medication to be absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, which can take longer and may not be suitable for all patients or conditions.