The bioavailability of rectally administered sodium ibuprofen solution and aluminum ibuprofen suspension was determined in eight normal subjects relative to the same treatments administered orally. The results indicate that the suspension was less bioavailable than the solution irrespective of the route of administration. Although not bioequivalent, rectally administered ibuprofen solution compared favourably with orally administered ibuprofen solution. The mean AUC and Cmax from rectal administration were 87 per cent and 62 per cent of the corresponding values achieved after oral administration. Mean residence times and peak times were 1-3 h longer with the rectal solution, indicating a slower rate of absorption. Absorption after rectal administration was zero order in some subjects while absorption after oral administration was first order. This may be due to the large differences in surface area between absorption sites. Since sodium ibuprofen solution is absorbed when given rectally, this route of administration could be used in patients unable to take oral ibuprofen.