Which term describes a dosage form that is solid at room temperature but melts at body temperature?

A suppository is a dosage form designed to be solid at room temperature, allowing for easy handling and storage, but it melts when administered into the body, typically in the rectum or vaginally. This characteristic of melting at body temperature facilitates the release of the active ingredient in a manner that allows for systemic absorption or local action. The design of suppositories is specifically intended to make medications effective for patients who may have difficulty swallowing pills, thus offering an alternative means of administration.

In contrast, a syringe is a delivery device, not a dosage form; a tablet is a solid dosage form that does not melt but rather dissolves in bodily fluids; and a solution represents a liquid dosage form where the active ingredients are fully dissolved rather than being solid.