Which route(s) of administration are available for alfaxalone?

• A. IM and IV
• B. Oral only
• C. Subcutaneous only
• D. Inhalation only

Answer: (A)

Alfaxalone is formulated for parenteral use, meaning it must be given by routes that deliver the drug directly into the bloodstream. The two practical routes are intravenous and intramuscular. Intravenous administration provides the fastest and most controllable induction of anesthesia because the drug enters circulation immediately. Intramuscular administration offers a reliable alternative when obtaining IV access is challenging, especially in small animals, giving a slower onset but still effective induction with a predictable duration. Oral administration is not suitable because the drug would have to pass through the digestive system, leading to poor and unpredictable bioavailability. Inhalation is not a standard route for this drug in practice, as it is not formulated for vaporization and maintenance via inhaled anesthetics. Subcutaneous administration is not typically used for reliable anesthesia with alfaxalone due to variable absorption.