A gavage needle is used for administering drugs to rodents using which route?

• A. Subcutaneous
• B. Intravenous
• C. Oral
• D. Rectal

Answer: (C)

Oral administration via direct gastric delivery using a gavage needle delivers a liquid dose through the mouth into the stomach. This route is used when precise dosing is needed or when the substance must reach the stomach for absorption or stability, and it bypasses voluntary drinking. It differs from subcutaneous (under the skin), intravenous (into a vein), or rectal routes, which involve different tissues and techniques. When performing gavage, restrain the rodent properly, insert the needle along the path of the esophagus to reach the stomach, and deliver the dose slowly while taking care to avoid aspiration and injury.