Which type of therapy may involve administering medications through a needle or catheter?

Intravenous therapy is the correct answer as it specifically involves the administration of medications directly into a patient's bloodstream through a needle or catheter. This method allows for rapid delivery and absorption of medications, making it particularly advantageous for patients who require immediate therapeutic effects, such as in emergencies or for those who cannot take medications orally due to various reasons (e.g., vomiting, unconsciousness).

Infusion therapy, while related, is a broader category that can encompass various forms of delivering fluids and medications, not limited specifically to intravenous routes. Intravenous therapy is a subset of infusion therapy that exclusively uses the IV method. Oral therapy refers to medications taken by mouth, and topical therapy involves applying treatments directly onto the skin. Understanding the distinction between these types of therapy is crucial for the role of a pharmacy technician, as it informs how medications are prepared and dispensed to patients based on their specific therapy needs.