1.1. Explain different formulations of medication

This guide will help you answer 1.1. Explain different formulations of medication.

Medication takes various forms depending on its purpose, how it is absorbed, and the needs of the person taking it. Each formulation is designed to ensure the medication works effectively and reaches the right part of the body.

Tablets

Tablets are the most common form of medication. They are solid and typically round or oval-shaped. Tablets can be swallowed whole, dissolved, or chewed, depending on the type.

Types of tablets include:

• Standard tablets: These are swallowed whole with water. The medication is released in the stomach and absorbed into the bloodstream.
• Chewable tablets: Designed to be chewed before swallowing, often suitable for those who struggle with swallowing pills.
• Effervescent tablets: These dissolve in water, creating a drinkable solution. They are easier to take and are often used for medications like pain relief or vitamin supplements.
• Enteric-coated tablets: Coated to resist stomach acid. They dissolve in the intestine to prevent irritation to the stomach lining.
• Sublingual tablets: Placed under the tongue to dissolve. The medication enters the bloodstream quickly through the mouth’s blood vessels.

Capsules

Capsules are another common form. They have a gelatine or vegetable-based outer shell containing medication in powder or liquid form. Capsules ensure the medication is released at the right time and place in the body.

Key types of capsules:

• Hard capsules: Contain dry ingredients in powder form.
• Soft capsules: Usually hold liquid medication. These are often easier to swallow.
• Modified-release capsules: Tailored to release medication slowly over time or in a specific part of the digestive system.

If someone finds swallowing capsules challenging, their healthcare provider may offer alternatives.

Liquid Medications

Liquids are commonly used for children, older adults, or anyone with difficulty swallowing tablets or capsules. Medicine in liquid form is absorbed quickly and is easy to measure in exact doses.

Types of liquid medications include:

• Syrups: Sweet and flavoured to make them more palatable, often used in paediatric medicine.
• Suspensions: Contain insoluble particles suspended in liquid. These need to be shaken well before use.
• Elixirs: Alcohol-based solutions that may also contain flavouring.
• Drops: Used for small, precise doses. Common examples are vitamin D drops for infants and eye or ear drops.

Creams, Ointments, and Gels

These are semi-solid formulations applied directly to the skin for localised treatment or through the skin for absorption into the bloodstream.

Creams are water-based and easily absorbed. They are helpful for skin conditions needing moisture or quick relief.

Ointments are oil-based, forming a protective barrier on the skin. They are thicker and best for conditions requiring long-lasting treatment.

Gels are lightweight and often have a soothing or cooling effect, ideal for burns, joint pain, or itching.

Inhalable Medications

Medicines for respiratory conditions, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), are often inhaled. Inhalable drugs reach the lungs directly, providing quick relief or long-term control.

Types of inhalable medications include:

• Metered-dose inhalers (MDIs): Devices releasing a pre-measured spray of medication.
• Dry powder inhalers: Use the person’s breath to pull medicine into the lungs.
• Nebulisers: Convert liquid medication into a fine mist for inhalation. These are often used in severe cases or for people who struggle with standard inhalers.

Patches

Patches, also known as transdermal patches, deliver medication through the skin. They provide consistent, slow release over hours or days.

Common uses for patches include:

• Pain relief (e.g., fentanyl patches).
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or contraception.
• Smoking cessation (nicotine patches).

They are effective for people who find it difficult to take medication orally.

Suppositories and Pessaries

Suppositories and pessaries are solid formulations inserted into the rectum or vagina, where they dissolve and release the medication.

• Suppositories: Often rectal, used for conditions like constipation or haemorrhoids. They deliver medication locally or allow it to enter the bloodstream.
• Pessaries: Designed for vaginal use, often for gynaecological conditions, such as thrush or infections.

These formats are suitable for those who cannot take medication orally or when localised treatment is required.

Injections

Injections involve administering medication directly into the body via needles. They provide rapid action and are often used in emergency settings or for drugs that cannot be given orally.

There are different injection types based on where the drug is administered:

• Intramuscular (IM): Injected into a muscle, commonly used for vaccines or certain painkillers.
• Subcutaneous (SC): Injected under the skin, often for insulin or anticoagulants.
• Intravenous (IV): Delivered directly into a vein. Common in hospitals for fluids and fast-acting drugs.
• Intradermal: Injected just below the skin’s surface, primarily for testing (e.g., tuberculosis skin test).

Injections must always be handled by trained professionals or under their guidance.

Granules and Powders

Granules and powders can either be taken directly or mixed with water. These are typically used when medication needs to dissolve before ingestion.

Examples include:

• Effervescent powders for pain relief or rehydration.
• Antibiotic powders mixed with water before taking.

This form is convenient for medications that degrade easily in liquid form during storage.

Buccal and Oromucosal Medications

Buccal medications are placed between the cheek and gum, while oromucosal drugs go onto the lining of the mouth. These medications dissolve in the mouth and enter the bloodstream quickly.

This form is often used for:

• Quick pain relief, such as in palliative care.
• Medications for nausea or migraines.

Eye, Ear, and Nasal Treatments

These medications come in drop or spray form and provide targeted treatment.

• Eye drops: Treat infections, glaucoma, or dryness.
• Ear drops: Used for ear infections or wax removal.
• Nasal sprays: Relieve congestion, treat allergies, or prevent migraines.

These formulations act locally unless absorbed into the bloodstream (e.g., nasal sprays for migraines).

Implants

Implants are small devices placed under the skin. They release medication slowly and steadily over time. Common examples include contraceptive implants or hormone therapy preparations.

They are particularly suited for long-term treatment without the need for daily medication.

Lozenges

Lozenges dissolve slowly in the mouth. They deliver medication locally (e.g., sore throat relief) or allow slow systemic absorption. They are often flavoured for ease of use.

Final Thoughts

Each formulation serves a specific purpose. The choice depends on the condition, the patient’s needs, and how the medication works in the body. Understanding different formulations allows better application of medication for individuals, ensuring comfort, proper absorption, and effective treatment. Always seek guidance if someone is unsure about the best method for taking their medication.