Crush And Dissolve Tablets And Capsules For Paediatric And In Nasogastric Tube Patients

Abstract

Oral drug delivery remains the most prevalent and preferred method due to its simplicity, non-invasive nature, and cost-effectiveness. However, for patients with dysphagia, particularly pediatric and critically ill individuals, the administration of solid dosage forms such as tablets and capsules presents significant challenges. This study aims to evaluate the availability and suitability of solid oral medications Medical services at Imam Muhammad bin Saud University for patients with swallowing difficulties, while identifying potential alternatives. Medications administered via intravenous, intramuscular, or rectal routes were excluded from the investigation. Data were gathered from pharmaceutical databases including LexiComp and referenced clinical guidelines such as the Handbook of Drug Administration via Enteral Feeding Tube (3rd edition) and the MOC Guidelines for Tablet Crushing in Patients with Swallowing Difficulties by Colchester Hospital University NHS. A total of 78 medications were initially reviewed, with 22 selected for further analysis based on their suitability for modification. Of these, 38% were sourced from LexiComp, while the remaining were derived from specialized clinical guidelines and institutional protocols. The findings underscore the necessity for healthcare providers to assess dysphagia and medication formulation compatibility when prescribing oral medications, particularly when liquid alternatives are unavailable. This research highlights the potential risks of modifying solid dosage forms and the importance of tailored drug delivery strategies to optimize therapeutic outcomes in patients with swallowing impairments.