When a medication is administered by a different route than the one for which it has been approved, it is called a ”non official”, ”non approved”, ”Off Label” or alternative route of administration. Many examples come to mind, such as an oral tablet given rectally, ophtalmic drops given orally or a parenteral solution given orally. This different way of administering medication is often observed in a palliative care setting, where oral medication is no longer available and patient comfort takes precedence over the legal aspects of medication administration. Despite this, this practice can be observed outside a palliative context. There are several reasons for this, including the unavailability of the drug, ease of administration, reduced cost, reduced adverse effects, etc. Although this approach is supported by clinical experience rather than large studies, it is practical and safe and the health professional must familiarize himself with these examples of different administration of medication.

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Giving Meds by Alternative Routes