A simple method for oral administration of drugs in solid form to fully conscious rats

The design and application of a simple capsule administration tube for miniature capsules are described. Experiments with rats have shown that the tube is capable of depositing capsules at the distal end of the oesophagus. Regardless of the location of the capsule in the oesophagus, provided normal peristaltic action occurs, the capsule will have reached the stomach and discharged its contents within 10 min. After a short training period of 3-4 days the insertion of the tube does not appear to cause the rats undue discomfort, nor does it cause tissue damage. The procedure, which can be performed rapidly by 1 technician, is ideally suited for dispensing solid materials to fully conscious animals.