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Abstract:  Tablet cutting is of interest now because of cost-reduction efforts. However, there is growing concern among pharmacists about the potential increase in medical errors that could result if the patient misinterprets the labeled directions applied to tablets that must be split in half. The author cites studies showing that inaccuracies occur frequently when tablets are split and discusses factors that should be considered before giving a patient a medication that requires splitting. She concludes that the compounding of a suspension, solution, cream or capsule may provide a more accurate dose than a split tablet and that the compounding pharmacist can work with the patient’s physician to formulate a precise dose for administration in a more suitable dosage form than a split tablet.

Related Keywords: Cutting, of tablets, Tablet cutting

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