What is the method of administering drugs by inserting them through the rectum called?

The method of administering drugs by inserting them through the rectum is known as rectal administration. This route allows for the absorption of medications directly into the bloodstream through the rectal mucosa. Rectal administration can be particularly useful in certain circumstances, such as when a patient is vomiting, unconscious, or unable to take medications orally. It can also provide a rapid onset of action for certain medications.

In contrast, transdermal administration involves the use of patches that deliver medication through the skin into the bloodstream. Buccal administration refers to placing medication between the gums and cheek for absorption, bypassing the digestive system. Inhalation involves the delivery of substances directly into the respiratory system, typically through the lungs. Each of these methods has specific applications, but rectal administration distinctly involves the rectal route, making it the correct answer in this context.