Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam

Which route of drug administration delivers medication directly to the GI tract?

1. Inhalation

2. Endoscopic

3. Enteral

4. Transdermal

The correct answer is: Enteral

The correct answer is enteral, as this route specifically involves delivering medication directly into the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Enteral administration typically includes methods such as oral (tablets or liquids), sublingual (under the tongue), and rectal (suppositories). This method is particularly beneficial for substances that need to be absorbed through the digestive system to achieve their therapeutic effect. Inhalation refers to delivering medication directly to the respiratory system, bypassing the GI tract entirely, while the endoscopic route often involves visualization and intervention in the GI tract, rather than direct drug delivery. Transdermal administration involves absorption through the skin, which also does not involve the GI tract at all. Thus, the enteral route is distinct and specific for delivering medications directly to the target area of the digestive system.