What form of medication combines solids with liquids to provide viscous consistency?

The correct answer is pastes, which are formulated by combining solids with liquids to achieve a thicker, viscous consistency. Pastes are commonly used in dermatological applications, as they provide a protective barrier and can adhere well to the skin, which helps in delivering medication effectively to the site of action.

Pastes typically contain a greater proportion of solid materials than other formulations, which contributes to their unique texture and allows them to remain in place longer than creams or lotions. This characteristic is particularly advantageous in treating localized conditions where prolonged contact with the skin is beneficial.

Other options, while they may involve liquids, do not primarily focus on achieving a viscous paste consistency. For instance, elixirs are usually clear liquids that contain alcohol, and are used for oral medications but do not combine solids to create a viscous texture. Emulsions involve mixing two immiscible liquids (like oil and water) but don't typically result in a paste-like viscosity since they are more fluid in nature. Syrups are concentrated solutions of sugar in water, often used to enhance the palatability of medications, rather than combining solids with liquids to form a thick consistency.