What type of medication delivery is inhalation primarily used for?

Inhalation is primarily used for delivering medications directly to the respiratory system, making it the most effective route for treating respiratory conditions. This method allows for quick absorption of the medication through the lungs, providing rapid relief for ailments such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory issues.

Inhaled medications can be bronchodilators, which open the airways, or corticosteroids, which reduce inflammation in the lungs. By targeting the respiratory system directly, inhalation bypasses the digestive system and avoids the metabolic processes that would reduce the medication's efficacy. This direct delivery is crucial in managing acute and chronic respiratory conditions, where rapid onset of action is often necessary for patient safety and comfort.