What is the maximum volume that can be administered via subcutaneous injection?

The maximum volume that can be administered via subcutaneous injection is typically accepted as 0.5 to 1 mL. Subcutaneous injections are delivered into the fatty tissue layer beneath the skin, where absorption rates can vary. Administering too large a volume may not only lead to discomfort or pain at the injection site, but it can also result in suboptimal absorption of the medication, as the tissue may not adequately accommodate larger volumes.

Using up to 1 mL allows for effective medication delivery while minimizing the potential for complications such as tissue damage or absorption issues. In contrast, volumes greater than 1 mL are generally discouraged in a subcutaneous route due to these considerations, making the 0.5-1 mL range the recommended maximum for these types of injections.