Topical medications can include which of the following forms?

Topical medications are specifically designed to be applied directly to a particular area of the skin or mucous membranes, providing localized treatment. The correct answer includes forms such as powders, creams, and ointments, which are all formulated to deliver active pharmaceutical ingredients in a manner that facilitates absorption through the skin or mucosal surface.

Creams and ointments are emollient-based and can provide a barrier, moisturization, or medicinal effects depending on the active components. Powders can be used for drying, protecting, or offering medicinal properties when applied to the skin. Each of these forms allows for precise delivery of treatment to affected areas, making them essential in dermatological therapies or local anesthetics.

The other options mention dosage forms that are intended for different routes of administration. Pills and capsules, injectable solutions, and oral tablets and syrups are designed for systemic absorption rather than localized treatment. These forms are absorbed into the bloodstream and have effects throughout the body, rather than being limited to the site of application as with topical medications. Consequently, they do not fall under the category of topical drug formulations.