University of Central Florida (UCF) HSC3147 Introduction to Pharmacology Practice Exam

Ibuprofen is commonly administered orally for various conditions, including muscle spasms. When taken by mouth, ibuprofen is absorbed into the bloodstream and distributed throughout the body, allowing it to exert its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects effectively. This route is preferred because it is convenient, non-invasive, and provides reliable dosing.

In contrast, the other routes listed have different applications and benefits that do not align with the typical use of ibuprofen for muscle spasms. Topical administration is generally used for localized pain relief, subcutaneous routes are typically reserved for certain medications like insulin or biologics, and inhalation is primarily used for respiratory conditions. Thus, oral administration is the recognized and practical route for ibuprofen in alleviating muscle spasms.