Enhancing patient experience through tablet design: A study on the swallowability of almond-shaped tablets

Tablet geometry significantly influences medication adherence and comfort, especially among individuals with swallowing difficulties. Conventional tablet shapes such as oval or cylindrical may hinder esophageal transit, causing discomfort and reducing adherence. This study investigated the functional impact of a novel almond-shaped tablet, designed to improve swallowability and enhance patient experience. Mechanical performance associated with tablet movement down the esophagus was assessed using in-vitro modelling techniques, including polymer tubing and funnel flow simulations, with strain mapping and load-displacement analysis to measure frictional resistance forces and deformation during transit. Consumer perception was evaluated through a sensory study comprising Central Location Testing and a 42-day Home Usage Test, involving 213 women aged 30-64, experiencing menopause symptoms. Initial results suggest that almond-shaped tablets exhibited lower frictional forces and reduced strain zones compared to conventional designs, implying potentially smoother passage through simulated esophageal conditions. Funnel-drop tests (developed to mimic the early stages of swallowing) confirmed faster transit times and improved vertical orientation, particularly under water-assisted conditions. Consumer feedback further supported these findings, with 93% agreeing that the almond-shaped tablet was easy to swallow. In conclusion, the almond-shaped tablet may offer measurable biomechanical advantages and strong consumer acceptance, supporting its adoption in oral dosage form design to enhance compliance and overall patient experience.