What does the term instillation refer to in medication administration?

The term instillation specifically refers to the method of delivering medication in a drop-by-drop manner, typically into areas such as the nose, ears, or eyelids. This technique ensures that the medication is administered precisely where it is needed, allowing for effective absorption and minimizing systemic exposure. For instance, in the case of eye drops, instillation allows the medication to reach the surface of the eye directly, maximizing therapeutic effects while reducing potential side effects that could arise from oral administration.

Other methods of medication administration, such as applying medication on the skin, inhaling vapor form medication, or injecting into a muscle, have different implications and techniques associated with them. These options represent different routes of administration and therapeutic strategies but do not align with the precise definition of instillation.