What is one reason for using rectal administration of medication?

Using rectal administration of medication is particularly beneficial for patients who cannot tolerate oral medications. This method is advantageous in situations where a patient may be experiencing nausea, vomiting, or difficulty swallowing, making oral administration ineffective or impossible.

Rectal administration allows for the absorption of medication through the rectal mucosa directly into the bloodstream, which can bypass issues that affect the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This route can also be useful when rapid absorption and onset of action are needed, as many medications administered rectally can start working more quickly than if taken orally.

In contrast, treatments for skin infections often require local application rather than systemic administration via the rectal route. Long-term medication administration is typically better suited to oral or alternative means that allow for consistent dosing and monitoring. Immediate relief can be provided by various routes, but rectal administration is more specifically advantageous when oral intake is not feasible.