What type of medication is known as a salve?

A salve is specifically classified as a semi-solid preparation that is intended for external application to the skin. This type of medication is designed to soothe, heal, and protect the skin, often used for conditions such as minor burns, abrasions, or chapped skin. The semi-solid consistency allows it to adhere to the skin, providing a barrier and delivering therapeutic effects directly at the site of application.

In contrast, other forms of medications like liquids, injectables, or gases serve different purposes and modes of administration that do not align with the definition of a salve. For instance, liquid medications for oral use are intended to be ingested, while injectable medications are designed for delivery via syringes, and gaseous medications are typically administered through inhalation. Each of these forms has unique properties and uses that distinguish them from a salve, which is specifically formulated for topical application.