Echevarria Jonille S.

BSP 2

LEARNING ACTIVITY for UNIT No. 8

1. Select one USP drug monograph for a tablet dosage form and identify and describe its main

components.

- Chewable tablets Definition Chewable tablets are usually uncoated. They are intended to be
chewed before being swallowed. In the manufacture of chewable tablets, measures are taken
to:

• ensure that the tablets are easily crushed by chewing; and

• ensure that the tablets are palatable.

The composition of chewable tablet consists of gum core, which may or may not be coated.
The core is composed of an insoluble gum base like fillers, waxes, antioxidants, sweeteners,
flavouring agents. The percentage of gum base varies from 30-60% depending upon the base
used and its properties.

2.Compare the advantages and disadvantages of unit dose packaging versus tablets packaged in
plastic bottle containers.

Advantages and disadvantages of unit dose packaging

 The advantage of the system is that it keeps the inventory at an optimum level, thus
reducing waste.

The disadvantages of these systems are the initial purchase cost and an ongoing expense
because each container in the machine has to be calibrated to the drug and to the particular
brand.

Advantages and disadvantages of tablets packaged in plastic bottle containers.

Advantages
 
The widespread use of plastic containers arose from a number of factors, including the
following---
• Its advantage over glass in lightness of weight and resistance to impact, which reduces
transportation costs and losses due to container damage.
• The versatility in container design and consumer acceptance.
• Consumer preference for plastic squeeze bottles in administration of ophthalmics, nasal
sprays, and lotions.
• The popularity of blister packaging and unitdose dispensing, particularly in health care
institutions.

Disadvantages
 
Among the problems encountered in the use of plastics in packaging are---

(a) permeability of the containers to atmospheric oxygen and to moisture vapor, 

(b) leaching of the constituents of the container to the internal contents, 
(c) absorption of drugs from the contents to the container, 
(d) transmission of light through the container, and 
(e) alteration of the container upon storage. 

3. Create a listing of conceivable ways a consumer/patient may misuse a tablet dosage form.

- According to the Institute for Safe Medication Practices, prescription drug misuse can

include: taking the incorrect dose; taking a dose at the wrong time; forgetting to take a dose;
stopping medicine too soon.

4.Identify several patient populations who might have difficulty administering a tablet dosage
form, and explain your reasoning.

- Many people with back or neck pain are prescribed oral pain medication, but research shows
that 30% of people dislike or have trouble swallowing pills. These people may avoid taking
medications because pills make them gag, or they feel like pills get stuck in their throats.