A non-powder-form freeze-dried composition for transpulmonary administration has a disintegration index greater than or equal to 0.015 and contains at least one active ingredient. The composition becomes fine particles upon receiving air impact at an air speed greater than or equal to 1 meter/second and an air flow rate greater than or equal to 17 milliliters/second. The fine particles have a mean particle diameter less than or equal to 1.times.10.sup.-5 meters and/or a fine particle fraction greater than or equal to 10%. A method of making the composition, a vessel containing the composition, a method of administering the composition, a dry powder inhalation system for transpulmonary administration, and a method of transpulmonary administration are also disclosed.