Review of the overuse of intravenous medicine
Extract:
“Overuse of intravenous medicines when oral formulations would be more appropriate is a global phenomenon, according to the World Health Organization. Intravenous medicines are associated with a higher rate of bloodstream and catheter related infections, require more nursing resources to administer, and are less comfortable for patients than oral equivalents. They are also more expensive (both for the medication and for the equipment required for administration).”
Reference:Eii MN, Walpole S, Aldridge C. Sustainable practice: Prescribing oral over intravenous medications. BMJ. 2023 Nov 6;383:e075297. doi: 10.1136/bmj-2023-075297. PMID: 37931943.