Pripomočki za lažje in pravilno uživanje zdravil
Medical aids for easier and correct medication dosage

slovenian

2019

volume 18, supl. 1

alternative formulation   Deglutition Disorders   drug   drug therapy   drugs   dysphagia   Orthotic Devices   swallowing aids   swallowing disorders

Univerzitetni rehabilitacijski inštitut RS – Soča
(Obvezni izvod spletne publikacije)

Background Solid oral pharmaceutical dosage forms, such as tablets and capsules, are generally the preferred method of drug delivery due to their convenience, cost, and acceptability. For 10-40 % of the people it can be a challenge to swallow solid oral medications, even to those with healthy swallowing function. Methods We searched the literature for methods and tools to reduce swallowing problems. We examined the 30 most frequently prescribed drugs in the solid oral form used at the University Rehabilitation Institute in Ljubljana. Results A number of strategies can potentially make it easier to swallow whole pills. These include teaching pill-swallowing techniques, using pill-swallowing aids, using alternative formulations or routes of administration, or the pills may be modified and mixed in foods and drinks to aid swallowing. Conclusions An integrated and interdisciplinary approach is needed to reduce inappropriate dosage-form modifications, and improve medication administration to people with swallowing problems. Altering a solid-dose formulation should be reserved as a last resort.

15.07.2019