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Parenterals: Routes CNS

Epidural

• Injections are made into the

epidural space between the dura

mater (the outermost protective

membrane covering the spinal cord)

and the vertebrae.

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Parenterals: Routes CNS

Intrathecal vs epidural routes

• Intrathecal administration is delivered directly into the CSF while
epidural administration diffuses through the dura into the CSF, and
thus epidural has a slower onset of action.

• Epidural route is commonly used for spinal anaesthesia, for example
during childbirth.

• Intrathecal route can also be used for spinal anaesthesia. Also, drugs
like antibiotics to treat meningitis or anticancer agents.

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Salma E. EL-Habashy 20