Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

parenteral

adjective

/pəˈrɛntərəl/

Definition

Administering substances or medications by a route other than through the digestive tract.

Examples

The doctor recommended parenteral nutrition for the patient who couldn’t eat normally.
Parenteral administration of medication can lead to faster onset of action.
Some drugs are only effective when delivered parenterally due to their instability in the digestive tract.

Meaning

The term parenteral typically refers to the delivery of nutrients or medications directly into the body, often via injection, thereby bypassing the gastrointestinal system.