How are medications administered through the inhaled route?

Medications administered through the inhaled route are absorbed through the nose or lungs. This method allows for direct delivery of medication to the respiratory system, where it can quickly enter the bloodstream or exert its effects locally within the airways. Inhaled medications often take the form of aerosols, powders, or vapors, and they target conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by working rapidly to relieve symptoms or manage the disease.

This route is particularly advantageous because it can provide a rapid onset of action due to the large surface area of the lungs and the rich blood supply in that area. This allows for effective and efficient drug delivery, minimizing potential side effects compared to systemic administration methods. The other routes mentioned in the choices do not pertain to inhalation.