Definition and properties
Dispersible tablets are uncoated tablets or film-coated tablets that can be suspended or dissolved in water before ingestion. They are designated by the Pharmacopoeia as “tablets for the preparation of a suspension for ingestion” and “tablets for the preparation of a solution for ingestion.” When dissolved, a homogeneous suspension or solution is formed. This is in contrast to meltable tablets (orodispersible tablets), which are taken directly into the mouth and usually dissolve without water. Dispersible tablets are suitable for example for:
- People with swallowing difficulties
- Patients who do not like to swallow tablets
- Taking large tablets
- Patients with disabilities
- Patients with psychiatric diseases
- Elderly people
- Children (if there is an admission)
Excipients
The tablets contain excipients, which allow rapid disintegration in water. These include, for example, celluloses, starches and lactose. Some also contain some sodium bicarbonate and an organic acid (such as tartaric acid) to promote disintegration, similar to effervescent tablets. Flavorings such as vanillin and sweeteners such as sorbitol may be included to improve taste.
Examples
Some active ingredients are commercially available in the form of dispersible tablets. These include, for example (selection):
- Antibiotics: Amoxicillin
- Antidepressants: fluoxetine
- Antiepileptic drugs: Lamotrigine
- Withdrawal drugs: disulfiram
- Vitamins: Vitamin D
- Minerals: calcium
Some tablets are explicitly labeled as dispersible and instructions can be found in the professional and patient information. For others, however, it is an off-label use. Whether dispersibility is possible must be clarified individually.
Preparation
According to the SmPC. Suspend the tablets in water with gentle agitation or stirring. This may take some time. According to the pharmacopoeia, they should disintegrate within three minutes. The suspension or solution should be drunk immediately after preparation. Do not let it stand or store it. After ingestion, a little more water may be drunk. Dissolving may be done with a little water, for example, on a teaspoon or in a small glass or cup. However, this does not apply to all medicines. Some of the tablets must not be pressed through the blister foil because they will crumble. The foil is pulled off and the tablet is carefully removed. Some dispersible tablets can also be used as meltable tablets or swallowed like regular tablets.
