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Alternatives to optimal administration of tablets
Acta Medica Scandinavica
|January 1, 1985
Summary
Taking tablets with cold carbonated water significantly improves esophageal transit time compared to lukewarm tap water. Yoghurt is a viable alternative for tablet administration, though it may affect bioavailability.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pharmacokinetics
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Tablet transit through the esophagus is crucial for effective drug delivery.
- Liquid viscosity and carbonation may influence esophageal transit.
- Understanding factors affecting tablet passage is important for patient compliance and therapeutic outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effect of different liquids (cold/lukewarm tap water, carbonated water, yoghurt) on the esophageal transit of a large tablet.
- To determine the optimal liquid volume for tablet administration.
- To assess the influence of carbonation and temperature on tablet passage.
Main Methods:
- A controlled investigation involving 27 healthy volunteers.
- Comparison of esophageal transit times for a barium sulphate tablet (similar to acetylsalicylic acid) with various liquids.
- Measurement of transit times using 100 ml and 25 ml liquid volumes.
Main Results:
- Cold carbonated water significantly enhanced tablet passage compared to lukewarm tap water (p=0.01) when using 100 ml.
- A similar advantage for carbonated liquids was observed with 25 ml volumes (p=0.01).
- Yoghurt provided an alternative but may reduce bioavailability.
Conclusions:
- Cold carbonated water is superior to lukewarm tap water for facilitating tablet esophageal transit.
- Liquid volume and carbonation are significant factors in tablet passage.
- Yoghurt can be used for tablet administration, with potential implications for drug bioavailability.