What Is Bolus?

A bolus is when a drug, medicine or other type of compound is given to an individual in order to increase their blood concentration levels in order to make them effective and healthy. People with diabetes are commonly given boluses (for insulin therapy). A bolus can be administered intravenously, or through subcutaneous or intramuscular injection. A bolus is directly attached to the bowel. The term is derived from the Latin word for "ball."

Intravenous

• Where a bolus is placed is dependent upon the body's necessary contents, and their required systemic levels. A bolus that is directly given to the veins via intravenous drip works much more rapidly in increasing blood concentration.

Intramuscular

• An intramuscular bolus is used to give vaccinations to enable slow emission of antigens to encourage the immune system and give the body some time to create antibodies.

Subcutaneous

• Subcutaneous bolus injections are often used for drug addicts (such as those addicted to heroin) to allow and maintain a slow moving release that prevents withdrawal effects (like euphoria and feelings of giddiness).

Diabetes

• Boluses can also be administered to individuals with diabetes, which is a chronic medical condition that is characterized by high glucose levels within the blood. Boluses are used alongside rapid-acting insulin (taken with a meal).

Identification

• The appearance of a bolus appears to be that of a soft, round mass of a medicinal substance. Boluses are significantly bigger in size than normal pills.