Which description best fits pastes?

Which description best fits pastes?

• A. Are THICK and STIFF, non greasy
• B. Are thinner creams
• C. Drug mixed with a waxy substance then pressed in a small round cone shape (rectal, vaginal)
• D. Stick to patients skin, contain a semisolid or liquid form of medication that is absorbed through the skin then enters the bloodstream

Answer: (A)

Pastes are a thick, stiff topical dosage form that stays in place on the skin and provides local effect rather than systemic absorption. This description fits because pastes are designed to be thick and stiff so they don’t run, and they are typically less greasy than ointments, forming a protective layer over the area. Thinner creams aren’t pastes because they spread easily and aren’t as thick or stiff. Suppositories are a different dosage form altogether, made by pushing the drug with waxy substances into a small cone shape for rectal or vaginal use. Descriptions that imply a preparation sticks to the skin and is absorbed into the bloodstream describe preparations intended for systemic absorption, which isn’t the usual purpose of pastes.

Pastes are a thick, stiff topical dosage form that stays in place on the skin and provides local effect rather than systemic absorption. This description fits because pastes are designed to be thick and stiff so they don’t run, and they are typically less greasy than ointments, forming a protective layer over the area.

Thinner creams aren’t pastes because they spread easily and aren’t as thick or stiff. Suppositories are a different dosage form altogether, made by pushing the drug with waxy substances into a small cone shape for rectal or vaginal use. Descriptions that imply a preparation sticks to the skin and is absorbed into the bloodstream describe preparations intended for systemic absorption, which isn’t the usual purpose of pastes.