Which of the following represents a common application of aqueous solutions in medicine?

The application of aqueous solutions in medicine is notably exemplified through injectable drugs. Aqueous solutions provide a medium in which drugs can be dissolved and administered directly into the bloodstream or tissues. This method allows for rapid absorption and bioavailability, making aqueous solutions particularly effective for medications that need to take effect quickly.

Injectable drugs often require precise dosing and rapid therapeutic action, which makes the use of aqueous solutions ideal. These solutions ensure that the medication is delivered in a form that the body can readily use. For instance, medications like antibiotics or anesthetics in aqueous solution form are crucial for immediate and effective treatment in various medical scenarios.

In contrast, topical ointments, capsules, and tablets typically utilize different forms of drug delivery and are not exclusively aqueous solutions. While some ointments may incorporate aqueous components, they primarily function through a semi-solid or oily base to deliver medications to the skin or mucous membranes. Capsules and tablets are solid dosage forms that rely on disintegration and dissolution processes but do not utilize aqueous solutions in the same direct manner as injectable drugs do, focusing instead on oral delivery and absorption through the digestive tract.