What is another term for a subcutaneous injection?

A subcutaneous injection is administered into the layer of fat and tissue just beneath the skin, and it is also referred to as a hypodermic injection. The term "hypodermic" comes from the Greek roots "hypo" meaning under and "derma" meaning skin. This method allows for the slow absorption of medication into the bloodstream and is commonly used for administering various medications, including insulin and vaccines.

In contrast, intramuscular injections involve delivering medication deep into a muscle, which allows for faster absorption into the bloodstream. Intradermal injections are given just under the skin, typically for allergy tests or tuberculosis screening, and intravenous injections introduce medications directly into the bloodstream through a vein for rapid effect.