What is a tablet best described as?

A tablet is best described as a compressed mixture of drug and excipients. This definition reflects the core characteristic of tablets, which are solid dosage forms created through the compression of powders. The formulation generally consists of an active pharmaceutical ingredient (the drug) combined with excipients, which serve various functions such as binding, disintegration, and controlled release.

In the context of dosage forms, this definition highlights the key manufacturing process involved in tablet creation—compression—along with the importance of excipients that enhance the tablet's effectiveness, stability, and patient acceptability. Tablets are a popular form of medication due to their convenience, accurate dosing, and stability.

Other options do not accurately define what a tablet is. For instance, a multi-particulate dosage form includes products like granules or pellets, which are composed of smaller particles rather than a single compressed entity like a tablet. A liquid dosage form refers to solutions, suspensions, or emulsions, which are entirely different from solid forms like tablets. Lastly, an ointment is a semi-solid preparation typically used for topical application, which does not have the same formulation or method of delivery as tablets.