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Oesophageal transit of small tablets
1Department of Surgery, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK.
The Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology
|August 1, 1988
Summary
Esophageal transit of tablets can be delayed, especially in older adults. Taking an extra sip of water after swallowing small tablets helps clear the esophagus and prevent irritation.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Physiology
Background:
- Oesophageal transit is crucial for drug delivery and digestion.
- Age-related changes may affect oesophageal function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate oesophageal transit times for liquids and tablets in asymptomatic adults.
- To assess the impact of age on tablet transit.
- To evaluate the efficacy of water intake in clearing oesophageal obstructions.
Main Methods:
- Gamma scintigraphy was used to monitor the transit of a liquid and five small tablets.
- Six asymptomatic subjects aged 29-80 years participated in the study.
Main Results:
- Liquid swallowing showed normal transit (50% clearance < 5s) in all subjects.
- Tablet transit was prolonged in 60% of swallows in some subjects, with more frequent hold-ups in the elderly.
- An additional water intake effectively cleared lodged tablets.
Conclusions:
- Oesophageal tablet transit can be variable and age-dependent.
- An additional drink of water is recommended after taking small tablets to prevent oesophageal retention and irritation.