There are several types of medications that can be administered in different forms such as capsules that can be swallowed, injections that are administered directly into the body, and topical forms like ointments, pastes or creams that are applied to the skin or mucous membranes. Ointments are thicker than creams while creams are better for the face. Pastes are stiff preparations with more powdered solids and lotions are liquid forms that can be used on areas like the scalp without leaving residues.