Which type of medication is administered to achieve curative effects?

The correct choice focuses on medications that are explicitly intended to treat diseases or conditions, which is fundamental in achieving curative effects. These medications are designed to directly target the underlying cause of an illness, working to eradicate the disease or significantly improve the patient's condition. This can include antibiotics for bacterial infections, antiviral medications for viral infections, or chemotherapy for cancer, among others. The goal of these medications is not merely to alleviate symptoms, but to resolve the disease altogether.

Other options do not align with the goal of achieving a cure. For instance, medications used for symptom management primarily address the symptoms rather than the root cause of the disease, providing relief but not necessarily leading to a cure. Medications intended for disease prevention, while crucial in a healthcare context, focus on stopping diseases from occurring rather than treating existing conditions. Finally, medications designed for topical application can be used for various purposes, including symptomatic relief or localized treatment, but their effectiveness in achieving curative outcomes would depend on the context and the specific condition being treated.