Pharmacy PEBC Practice Exam

Which of the following are two common routes of drug administration?

1. Oral and subcutaneous

2. Intravenous and topical

3. Oral and intravenous

4. Inhalational and intramuscular

The correct answer is: Oral and intravenous

The correct answer, which includes both oral and intravenous routes, is significant because these are two of the most standard and widely used methods for administering medications. Oral administration is one of the most common routes due to its convenience, ease of use, and patient compliance. Medications delivered orally are absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract into the bloodstream, making them a favored option for many therapies. Intravenous administration, on the other hand, allows for direct delivery of drugs into the bloodstream, providing immediate effects and the ability to control dosing precisely. This route is often utilized for emergencies or situations requiring quick action, such as in hospitals. Both routes are essential in clinical practice, as they cater to different therapeutic needs and patient situations, facilitating a broad range of treatments. While the other options do include valid routes of administration, they do not represent two of the most common pairs utilized in practice. Administering drugs subcutaneously or topically is more specific and often reserved for certain types of medications. Inhalational and intramuscular routes, while also important, do not have the widespread application and versatility found with oral and intravenous methods in general medical practice.