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Knowing that there are different types of medications out there, it’s tough to choose which best suits your needs. To help, here is a guide to better understand and make your choice.
Oral medication comes in a lot of shapes and sizes. From liquids to pills to powders, you name it and you will find it. Each one has its own pros and cons when it comes to ease of use, effectiveness, and safety. However, all types of medications have one goal; to prevent or treat a disease.
Why Does Medication Come in Different Forms?
As per Gina J. Ryan (Chair of Pharmacy Practice and a clinical professor of Pharmacy Practice at Mercer University) “The main purpose of putting a medication in a specific form is getting the drug to the site where it needs to be”
For instance, insulin can only be available in a non-oral form whereas cancer medications come in all forms; liquids, tablets, topical ointments, and injections. On the other hand, birth control comes in patches as well as tablets.
Types of Oral Medications
Oral medications refer to anything that is taken by the mouth. The effect of oral meds starts to take place when they reach the stomach. Here are the main types:
Tablets
It is the most commonly used form of all. Tablets are essentially medications mixed together with binder powder. Most of these pills have a thin coating that makes them easy to swallow. The enteric-coated tablets easily absorb in the stomach and then go to the bloodstream. Tablets can be further categorized into the following types:
- Chewable Tablets – Chewable tablets come in a variety of different flavors and are quick to act.
- Orally Disintegrating Tablets – These tablets dissolve as soon as you put them in your mouth and go directly into the bloodstream. They work wonders for nausea and migraine.
- Sublingual Tablets – These tablets are quick acting and go under the tongue.
- Effervescent Tablets – Such tablets are first dissolved in water and then consumed orally.
Capsules
When it comes to capsules, medication is coved by a shell. The shell comes in both hard and soft forms and is typically made of gelatin. Let’s breakdown the types further:
- Spansules – These are capsules that release medication slowly, usually over a period of hours. A great example is Dexedrine that is used to treat DHD.
- Softgels – They are also called liquid gels and the medication is dispersed through gelatin.
Liquids
Liquid medications are perfect for those who find it difficult to swallow a tablet. It is mainly preferred by kids, infants, and elderly individuals. However, it is important to measure this medication precisely before consuming it.
Granules/Powders
Powders are generally mixed into soft foods such as yogurt or milk and even water. This form of medication is preferred for kids or people who have trouble swelling.
Which Form is Better? And Some Points to Consider
As per the experts, no form of a pill is better than the other and vice versa. It is mostly a matter of individual preference. However, there are certain things you need to keep in mind.
- Solid tablets generally have a longer shelf life than liquid ones. Hence, always check the expiration date.
- If you find it difficult to swallow certain medications or you are taking them for the kids, chewable and liquid forms of tablets are a much better option. But, it is important to remember that not all medication comes in different forms.
- The form of medication generally doesn’t affect the price. The price tag is based on the number of bills/quantity of liquid and brand name.
- If you want to split the dose, you will have to purchase a tablet because other forms of medications cannot be split.
- It is best to get advice from an expert pharmacist prior to making the final purchase.
Medications and their Durations
They come in two main forms; IR and ER.
IR – Immediate Release
As evident from the name, IR medications are quick to action and work immediately to relieve symptoms. You will have to take multiple doses throughout the day as the effect wears off pretty quickly.
ER – Extended Release
These medications are slow-acting and the effect lasts for a longer duration. Typically, you will be required to take them once every 24 hours.
The fact that you need to choose ER or IR medication involves much more than your personal preference. It includes factors such as age, liver health, kidney health, how the individual’s body breaks down medication. Your doctor or pharmacist will be able to assist you more in this matter.
Are Certain Types of Medications Better than Others?
Well, the best form depends on the patient who is taking it. No form is better than the other. It is a matter of personal preference and suitability.
Medication Safety
- Some people split their tablets to adjust the dose without consulting with a pharmacist. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider before doing so. This is recommended by Food & Drug Administration (FDA).
- Always read the “HOW SUPPLIED” section carefully to ensure FDA allows tablet splitting. As a general rule of thumb, controlled and time-released medications are not recommended for splitting.
- Look for a mark on the tablet and split it accordingly. It is one of the best ways to divide a tablet. Your pharmacist can guide you further on how to do it correctly.
- It is also crucial to first consume both halves of the tablet before reaching out for the next one. Factors like humidity, heat, and moisture can impact the medication.
- Different brands of the same medication might have different rules regarding tablet split. It is best to confirm with the pharmacist beforehand.
- Always use the measuring spoon or a dropper to measure liquid medications.
Final Thoughts
Medication can come in a variety of different forms. What suits one person might not suit another and vice versa. Before taking medication or choosing its type, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional. Never switch the brand, type of medication on your own and trust your healthcare provider.
Your safety needs to be your number one priority. And if you need more information, contact us today!