How are laxatives primarily administered?

Laxatives are primarily administered orally or rectally because these methods effectively target the digestive system. Oral administration allows the laxative to be absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, where it can stimulate bowel activity or soften the stool directly. Rectal administration, such as with suppositories or enemas, provides a rapid effect for those who may not be able to take medications orally, such as individuals experiencing nausea, vomiting, or certain gastrointestinal obstructions.

Other methods of administration, such as inhalation, topically, or intravenously, are not suitable for laxatives as they do not directly affect the bowel or the stool. Inhalation is more appropriate for respiratory medications, topical administration works for localized skin conditions, and intravenous routes are reserved for fluids and medications that need to enter the bloodstream directly. Thus, the oral and rectal routes are the most effective and commonly used routes for laxative administration.