What type of medication is typically administered subcutaneously?

Study for the LVN Fundamentals Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations to help you succeed. Get exam-ready now!

The correct answer is the type of medication that is commonly administered subcutaneously is insulin. This method of administration involves injecting the medication into the fatty tissue just beneath the skin, making it ideal for insulin, which is used to manage blood sugar levels in patients with diabetes.

Subcutaneous administration allows for a relatively slow absorption of the medication into the bloodstream, which is particularly beneficial for insulin as it helps maintain a steady level of glucose control throughout the day. Insulin's pharmacokinetics align well with this route, as patients often require consistent dosing to manage their condition effectively.

While other medications, such as some antibiotics, pain relievers, and antidepressants, can also be given via subcutaneous injection under specific circumstances, they are not as standard in this route as insulin is. Insulin’s widespread use via subcutaneous injection is well established in the management of diabetes, making it the most recognized example of this delivery method.

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