Which method of administration refers to medication applied directly to the skin?

The method of administration that refers to medication applied directly to the skin is known as topical. Topical medications are designed to affect only the area where they are applied, meaning they generally act locally and are absorbed through the skin. This can include creams, ointments, patches, or gels that treat conditions such as rashes, infections, or pain localized to a specific surface area.

In contrast, oral medications are taken by mouth and are absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, which differs fundamentally from the direct application to the skin. Sublingual medications are placed under the tongue for rapid absorption into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system, and intravenous administration involves delivering medication directly into a vein, thereby providing immediate systemic effects. Each of these alternative methods serves different purposes and is suited for different clinical situations, emphasizing the unique nature of topical applications for localized treatment.