Which characteristic describes enteral medications?

• A. Absorbed quickly and commonly used in emergencies
• B. Enter through the digestive tract and are absorbed slowly
• C. Administered by injection
• D. Only topical use

Answer: (B)

Enteral medications are delivered through the digestive tract, most commonly by mouth, and they are absorbed via the GI mucosa. Because their absorption depends on factors like gastric emptying, intestinal motility, pH, and first-pass metabolism in the liver, they typically have a slower and more variable onset than injections. This slower action makes them less suitable for emergencies where rapid effect is required, though they are convenient and safe for many patients. Topical or injected routes bypass the GI tract and thus have different onset profiles, which is why the characteristic of entering the digestive tract and being absorbed slowly best describes enteral meds.