What is the term for the ways in which a medication is absorbed into the body?

The correct term for the ways in which a medication is absorbed into the body is "route." This term specifically refers to the administration pathway that a medication takes to enter the patient's system, including options such as oral, intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous, and more. Each route has unique characteristics that influence how quickly and effectively the medication acts within the body.

Understanding the route of administration is crucial for safe and effective medication administration, as different routes can lead to different onset times of action, durations of effect, and overall bioavailability of the medication. For instance, medications given intravenously can provide immediate effects, whereas oral medications may take longer to be absorbed.

The other terms do not specifically define the method by which medications enter the body. "Method" is more general and does not refer specifically to administration; "process" describes a series of actions or changes but lacks the precision needed in medication terminology; "pathway" could imply a route, but it is not the standard term used in pharmacology to describe medication absorption. Thus, "route" is the most accurate and appropriate choice in this context.