Tablet (pharmacy)

Tablet (pharmacy)

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A variety of tablets commonly used in pharmacy.

A tablet, in the context of pharmacy, refers to a solid dosage form of medication that is typically round or oval in shape and is intended for oral administration. Tablets are one of the most commonly used forms of medication due to their convenience, ease of administration, and stability. This article provides an overview of tablets in pharmacy, including their composition, manufacturing process, and various types.

Composition

Tablets are composed of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) along with various excipients. The API is the therapeutic component of the tablet that provides the desired pharmacological effect. Excipients, on the other hand, are inactive substances that are added to the tablet formulation to aid in its manufacturing, stability, and administration. These excipients can include binders, fillers, disintegrants, lubricants, and coloring agents, among others.

Manufacturing Process

The manufacturing process of tablets involves several steps, including formulation, granulation, compression, and coating. In the formulation stage, the API and excipients are carefully selected and mixed in specific proportions. Granulation is the process of converting the mixed powders into granules, which improves flowability and compressibility. Compression involves compressing the granules into tablet form using a tablet press machine. Finally, coating may be applied to the tablets to enhance their appearance, taste, and stability.

Types of Tablets

There are various types of tablets available in pharmacy, each designed to meet specific patient needs. Some common types include:

Immediate-Release Tablets

Immediate-release tablets are designed to release the medication rapidly upon ingestion. They are commonly used when a quick onset of action is desired. These tablets disintegrate and dissolve quickly in the gastrointestinal tract, allowing for rapid absorption of the medication into the bloodstream.

Extended-Release Tablets

Extended-release tablets, also known as sustained-release or controlled-release tablets, are formulated to release the medication slowly and continuously over an extended period of time. This allows for a prolonged therapeutic effect and reduces the frequency of dosing. These tablets are often used for medications that require a steady blood concentration over an extended period.

Chewable Tablets

Chewable tablets are designed to be chewed or crushed before swallowing. They are commonly used for pediatric patients or individuals who have difficulty swallowing whole tablets. These tablets are formulated to have a pleasant taste and texture, making them easier to administer.

Internal Links

- Pharmacy: Provides an overview of the field of pharmacy and its various aspects. - Dosage form: Explores different forms in which medications are available, including tablets. - Excipient: Provides detailed information on the inactive substances used in tablet formulations. - Granulation: Discusses the process of converting powders into granules during tablet manufacturing. - Tablet press: Provides information on the machine used to compress granules into tablet form. - Coating (pharmacy): Explores the process of applying a coating to tablets for various purposes. - Immediate-release dosage form: Provides an in-depth look at immediate-release tablets and their characteristics. - Extended-release dosage form: Explores the concept of extended-release tablets and their advantages. - Chewable tablet: Provides detailed information on chewable tablets and their applications.

References

1. Smith, J. (2019). Introduction to Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms. In Introduction to Pharmaceutical Calculations (pp. 1-15). Springer, Cham. 2. Aulton, M. E., & Taylor, K. M. (2017). Tablets. In Aulton's Pharmaceutics (pp. 293-324). Elsevier.