What is a major issue with administering medication by mouth compared to other routes?

The correct answer emphasizes that administering medication by mouth can result in slower absorption compared to other routes, such as intravenous or intramuscular delivery. When medications are taken orally, they must first pass through the gastrointestinal tract, where they can be affected by factors such as the presence of food, gastric pH, and the formulation of the drug itself. This can delay the onset of medication effects, especially when rapid action is required.

The oral route also involves first-pass metabolism in the liver, which can further reduce the concentration of the active drug that reaches systemic circulation, making it less efficient than other methods of administration that deliver medication directly into the bloodstream. This slower absorption can significantly impact the timing of the therapeutic effects of the medication, particularly in emergency situations where rapid intervention is critical.

Addressing the other options, while gastrointestinal disturbances can occur with oral medications, it is not a universal issue affecting all patients to the same degree. Similarly, while there are certain populations who may not be able to safely take medications by mouth (e.g., those with swallowing difficulties or gastrointestinal diseases), this does not encompass all patients. Lastly, allergic reactions can occur with any route of administration, and the risk is not necessarily higher with oral medications compared to others. Thus, the