Which type of medication is taken by mouth?

Elixirs are a type of medication that is specifically formulated to be taken by mouth. They are sweetened hydroalcoholic solutions that can contain both water and alcohol, often used to dissolve medications that may not be soluble in water alone. They are designed to be palatable to enhance patient adherence to therapy, which is crucial for the effectiveness of the treatment.

Otic preparations are intended for ear use, ophthalmic preparations are formulated for application in the eyes, and suppositories are designed to be inserted into the body (usually rectally or vaginally) rather than taken orally. This distinction is important in pharmaceutical practice, as incorrect routes of administration can lead to ineffective treatment or adverse effects. Thus, elixirs are the clear choice when identifying oral medications.