Solid Medications: Forms and Functions for Accurate Dosing and Administration

Solid medications:

tablet (scored: ie easy to divide), capsule, time-release capsule, time-release tablet, enteric-coated tablet (special coating does not allow to dissolve until passes through the stomach), caplet

Solid medications refer to drugs that have a solid form or physical state such as tablets, capsules, powders, and granules. Solid dosage forms are the most commonly prescribed form of medication because of their accuracy in dosing and ease of administration.

Tablets: Tablets are solid dosage forms that are made by compressing a mixture of the drug and other fillers and binders. They are available in different shapes and sizes, and can have different release patterns. Tablets can be coated with a film to mask the taste of the drug or to allow for delayed-release or extended-release formulations.

Capsules: Capsules are solid dosage forms that consist of two halves that can be filled with either powder, pellets or liquid. Capsules are often used for drugs that are unstable, have unpleasant taste or can cause irritation to the stomach. Capsules can also be specially designed for delayed-release or sustained-release formulations.

Powders: Powders are finely divided solid dosage forms that are intended for oral use. They can be packaged in sachets or reconstituted with water before administration. Powders are often used for drugs that degrade quickly in solution and for pediatric patients who have trouble swallowing tablets or capsules.

Granules: Granules are solid particles that are smaller than a tablet and larger than a powder. Granules are often used in modified release formulations, where the drug particles are coated with a material that controls the release of the drug in the body. Granules can also be added to a liquid to make a suspension, which is used for drugs that are insoluble in water.

In conclusion, solid medications are a convenient and widely used form of medication that can be used for a range of health conditions. It is important to follow the dosage instructions to ensure that proper medication administration is being met.

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