[Splitting of tablets: small pieces a risk]

For economic reasons physicians prescribe more and more multiunit tablets. Splitting of multiunit tablets depends on the physical-chemical properties of the agents, the galenic of the dosage form, the size and contour of the tablet and the shape of the score. Tablets with one or more scores are prepared to be divided for a single/multiple dose. How easily and exact a tablet can be divided depends heavily on the physical shape, its size and the outfit of the score. The fragments have to fulfil the requirements according to the European Pharmacopoeia: Uniformity of multiunit tablets. Since exact dosing is guaranteed only if tablets are divided properly, information and guidance of the patients by the physician and pharmacist is of critical importance.