What is an advantage of rectal administration of drugs?

Rectal administration of drugs offers significant advantages, particularly in cases where patients may be vomiting, unconscious, or unable to take medications orally. This method allows for the effective delivery of medication directly into the bloodstream via the rectal mucosa, bypassing the gastrointestinal tract where absorption can be compromised.

In pediatrics, where the administration of oral medications can be challenging due to reluctance or inability to swallow tablets or liquids, rectal suppositories provide an alternative route that is often easier to manage. Additionally, in situations where a patient is vomiting, the oral route would be ineffective, making the rectal route not only advantageous but sometimes essential for delivering necessary medications, such as antiemetics or analgesics. This route can also circumvent the first-pass effect of the liver, leading to potentially faster therapeutic effects for the patient.