Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) Practice Exam

Acute drug reactions are most likely to occur following which route of administration?

1. Topical administration

2. Intramuscular administration

3. Oral administration

4. Intravenous administration

The correct answer is: Intravenous administration

The likelihood of acute drug reactions is significantly higher following intravenous administration due to the fact that this method delivers the drug directly into the bloodstream, allowing for rapid systemic circulation and onset of action. When a drug is administered intravenously, it bypasses the body's natural barriers and metabolic processes that would typically modify or delay its effects, as seen with oral or intramuscular routes. In intravenous administration, the drug reaches peak concentrations much more quickly, which can heighten the potential for adverse effects, including allergic reactions or toxicity. This rapid exposure can lead to a swift onset of symptoms, making it a critical route to monitor for acute drug reactions. Factors such as the purity of the drug, the rate of administration, and the patient's individual sensitivities also contribute to the heightened risk associated with intravenous delivery. In contrast, other routes like oral and intramuscular may be linked with slower absorption rates, which can reduce the immediacy of any adverse reactions. Topical administration, meanwhile, generally involves localized effects rather than systemic reactions, further diminishing the likelihood of acute drug responses through that route.