Which of the following is a form of medication that is typically applied to the skin?

An ointment is a form of medication specifically designed to be applied to the skin. It typically has a thick, greasy texture and is used for topical treatments to deliver medication directly to a localized area, such as for treating skin conditions or providing moisture. Ointments create a barrier on the skin, allowing the active ingredients to remain in contact with the skin longer, which enhances the effectiveness of the medication.

In contrast, elixirs are liquid medications that often contain alcohol and are usually ingested rather than applied to the skin. Solutions, like elixirs, are also typically meant for oral administration or, in some cases, as intravenous medications depending on their formulation. Tablets are solid forms of medication designed to be ingested, so they do not apply directly to the skin at all.

Understanding the correct application methods and forms of medications is crucial for effective treatment and patient safety, making it important to recognize ointments’ specific purpose in topical therapy.