Orally disintegrating tablets (ODTs) quickly break down on the tongue, eliminating the need for water or swallowing. This design makes them particularly suitable for individuals who experience difficulty swallowing, a condition known as dysphagia, which can affect children, the elderly, and patients with certain medical conditions.
ODTs offer convenience. They can be administered without water, making them practical for people on the go or those with limited access to liquids. For some medications, the quick disintegration and absorption through the mouth’s lining can lead to a faster onset of action, improving the medication’s effectiveness. This innovative delivery method enhances patient compliance and ensures medication can be taken reliably.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Begin by thoroughly washing and drying your hands, as moisture can compromise the tablet’s integrity. Carefully remove the tablet from its packaging, typically a blister pack, by peeling back the foil rather than pushing the tablet through, which could cause it to break.
Immediately place the tablet on top of your tongue. Allow the tablet to dissolve completely without chewing, crushing, or swallowing it whole. The tablet is formulated to disintegrate rapidly upon contact with saliva, usually within seconds to a minute.
After the tablet has fully dissolved, you can swallow the dissolved medication naturally with your saliva. While water is generally not required for administration, a small sip may be taken after the tablet has completely dissolved if desired.
Important Handling and Storage Tips
Proper handling and storage are crucial for maintaining the effectiveness of orally disintegrating tablets. These tablets are sensitive to environmental factors such as moisture, light, and extreme temperatures. Therefore, it is important to keep them in their original sealed blister packaging until the moment of use.
Store ODTs in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and humidity. This helps prevent the tablet from prematurely breaking down or losing its potency. If a tablet accidentally breaks, crumbles, or appears damaged before you take it, it is generally recommended to discard it and use a new, intact tablet.
Never chew, crush, or swallow an ODT whole, as this can alter the medication’s intended release and absorption profile. Manipulating the tablet in this way can compromise the precise dosage and effectiveness designed for the rapid-dissolving format. Removing tablets from their packaging in advance is also discouraged, as exposure to air and moisture can lead to degradation.