Medical pills assortment on white background

Medical pills assortment on white background: variety of solid oral medications in closeup macro shot, highlighting distinct shapes and colors.

About this subject

Tablets are solid dosage forms widely used for drug administration. They can be classified as simple, coated, effervescent, chewable, and modified-release tablets, each designed to meet specific absorption and therapeutic effect needs. The variety of colors and shapes is not merely aesthetic: each color may indicate the active ingredient or dosage, helping to prevent medication errors. In Brazil, the National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA) regulates the production and marketing of medicines, ensuring quality and safety standards.

Tablet production involves processes such as granulation, compression, and coating. Granulation can be wet or dry, depending on the drug's properties. Compression is performed on rotary or eccentric machines, which apply controlled pressure to form the tablet. Coating, when applied, can protect against moisture, mask unpleasant taste, or control the release of the active ingredient. Modern technologies allow for the production of extended-release tablets, which maintain stable plasma levels over a longer period.

Ingesting tablets requires care: some must be taken with water, others with food, and some should not be crushed or chewed. Self-medication is a public health issue in Brazil, and improper use of medications can lead to adverse reactions, bacterial resistance, and poisoning. Therefore, it is essential to follow medical prescriptions and pharmaceutical guidance.

Interestingly, the first tablet was patented in 1843 by English inventor William Brockedon, who developed a compression machine to produce potassium carbonate pills. Since then, the pharmaceutical industry has evolved significantly, and tablets now represent about 70% of dosage forms marketed worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main types of tablets?

The main types are: plain (uncoated), coated (with protective film), effervescent (dissolved in water), chewable (broken in the mouth), and modified-release (prolonged or delayed).

How should I store tablets correctly?

Tablets should be stored in a dry, cool place away from light, out of reach of children. Avoid bathrooms and kitchens due to humidity. Keep in original packaging with leaflet.

Can I split or chew any tablet?

No. Extended-release or specially coated tablets should not be split or chewed, as this alters drug release and may cause overdose. Consult the leaflet or pharmacist.