Why Potions are important.

1. In general they can achieve more than spells and charms. Although they do require more precision and time, they are more powerful.
   
2. They are based on logic and chemistry. They are dependent only on the quality of the source rather than the channeling of magic from with in. 
3. There is an added danger to potions. Some can be odorless, tasteless, and/or colorless. That means a person can be tricked in to taking it, whereas spells are more direct.
   

In 1493, the Petrichor Poison pandemic occurred when a living potion, originating in India, was spread. This is an instance when being able to affect a large populace is bad. However, there is good too. This ability allowed for getting Dragon Pox under control. Gunhilda of Grosemoor is credited with creating the cure.

Ethics is a set of concepts/principles that guide is in determining what behavior helps or harms sentient creatures. This is NOT synonymous with religion, law, or social convention. 

The Potions Association is the governing body on potion making. The work with the Most Extraordinary Society of Potioneers to determine what is ethical. During the first wizarding world war of 1970-1981, the legalities of unforgivables were brought up. Most thought that the greater good out weighed the means.

Potions are more likely planned, therefore they carry a harsher punishment when used in a crime.

The Potions Association regulates ingredients including what is harvested, humane harvesting, the taking from deceased by natural causes, and the consent from self aware creatures.

The Potions Guild deals with fair trade.

Potions can not be unethical, only the intent/use of them.

Luck and love potions are frowned upon.

Testing on house elves was legal until 1982

Administration of Potions, ask these questions

1. is the user of the potion willing to participate?
2. does the user appear confused/forgetful?
3. does the user have a history of potion abuse or self harm?
4. can the user read the label?
5. does the user understand what it is for, the dosage, instructions and side effects?

Bioavailability is the amount of a potion that reaches the intended part of the body. In the case of an IV, it is usually 100%, while oral administration is lower and requires a higher dose.

Routes of Administration. 

1. Oral, through the mouth. It is a common and convenient method. It's effectiveness is affected by food in the stomach. If it is in pill form and is crushed or broken, it will effect the release of the potion. Sublingually means under the tongue. 
2. Topical or directly to the intended site. Potions are not absorbed at a great concentration so there are reduce side effects. This route may cause skin reactions. Inhalation is also a form of Topical.
3. Enteral Feeding Tube is to be used only as a last resort.
   
4. Parenteral is any non-oral means, typically an injection.
   
1. intramuscular- into the muscle
2. subcutaneous- under the skin
3. IV- less preferred because of the greater risk and inconvenience 

The advantages of parenteral routes

• for potions that are poorly absorbed, inactive, or ineffective orally.
• immediate action by IV
• IM and Subq achieve slow or delayed onset.
  
• Compliance problems are avoided.
  

The disadvantages are

• they require a healer or potioneer
• costly
• painful
• require more supporting equipment.
  

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