The correct
use of pharmaceutical drugs supports therapy success and reduces
the number of adverse side effects. One relevant aspect of use
concerns the amount of liquid consumed when taking compact and
shaped medicines.
Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the volume
of liquid used by patients when administering their medication.
Methods: Every patient who bought tablets or capsules from the
study leader in a pharmacy in Jena (Germany), and wanted to take
their medicine immediately, received a glass containing 150ml
of water. The volume of water consumed by the patients was measured
after they took their medication.
Results: 21 out of the 136 participants (15.4%) used only up to
60ml of liquid to take their tablets or capsules. Significant
influences of demographic aspects, such as age or gender, on the
volume of used liquid were not found. However, an increase in
tablet or capsule size led to a significant increase in the volume
of swallowed liquid.
Conclusion: Patients need to be better informed about drinking
a sufficient amount of liquid when taking tablets or capsules
orally. Therefore, it is important that every package insert of
compact and shaped medicines contains this information. In addition,
medical and pharmaceutical experts should also provide this advice
to their patients.
