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Tablets Definition

A tablet is a solid dosage form of medicine that contains a pre-measured amount of active ingredients. It is a compressed medication made up of various ingredients, such as binders, fillers, lubricants, colourings, and flavourings. The active ingredients are mixed with other ingredients to bind them together and form a tablet, which is then compressed into a desired shape. Tablets are typically made in various shapes and sizes and are designed to be swallowed whole.

Tablets must be manufactured to the highest possible standards to ensure they are safe and effective. This includes ensuring that all ingredients are correctly weighed, mixed, and formed into the desired shape and size. Quality control measures are also taken to ensure that the tablets meet the required strength, purity, and quality standards.

Tablets Definition

History of Tablets

The history of tablet medicine can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where tablets were used to treat various ailments. In ancient Greece, tablets were used to make herbal and mineral medicines, while in the middle Ages, they were used to treat various illnesses and ailments. In the Renaissance, tablets were used to treat diseases such as plague and cholera. In the 19th century, tablet medicine became more widespread and was used to treat various conditions, including fever and stomach ailments. During this time, the production of tablet medicine was also perfected, with technological advances allowing for the production of tablets in mass quantities.

Today, tablet medicine treats various conditions, from headache and muscle pain to HIV/AIDS and cancer. Tablet medicine is also used for lifestyle applications such as weight loss, quitting smoking, and improving sleep. Technology advancements have allowed for the development of new types of tablet medicine, including time-release tablets, sublingual tablets, and chewable tablets.

Types of Tablets

There are several different types of tablets, including:

  • Immediate-Release Tablets: These tablets are designed to release the active ingredients quickly and work within a short period.
  • Controlled-Release Tablets: These tablets are designed to slowly release the active ingredients over an extended period.
  • Delayed Release Tablets: These tablets are designed to release the active ingredients after a certain time.
  • Enteric-Coated Tablets: These tablets are coated with a special coating that allows them to pass through the stomach without being broken down, allowing them to reach their target site in the body.
  • Chewable Tablets: These tablets are designed to be chewed or sucked, allowing the active ingredients to be quickly absorbed into the body.
  • Effervescent Tablets: These tablets are designed to dissolve in water, releasing a bubbling action that aids in absorbing the active ingredients.
  • Dispersible Tablets: These tablets are designed to be dispersed in water before being taken, allowing the active ingredients to be quickly absorbed into the body.

Property of Tablets

  • Size: Tablets are available in a variety of sizes and shapes.
  • Weight: Tablets are typically very lightweight and easy to transport.
  • Strength: Tablets must be made to the highest possible standards to ensure they are safe and effective.
  • Stability: Tablets are typically very stable, with a long shelf life.
  • Ease of Use: Tablets are very easy to take, as they can be swallowed whole or divided into smaller doses.
  • Accuracy: Tablets provide accurate and consistent doses of
Tablets Definition

Manufacturing of Tablets

The manufacturing process for tablets involves several steps. First, the active and other ingredients are weighed and mixed in a large container. The mixture is then compressed into the desired shape and size, and the tablets are cut. The tablets are then polished and inspected for quality. Finally, the tablets are packed for distribution. Quality control measures are taken throughout the manufacturing process to ensure that the tablets meet the required standards for strength, purity, and overall quality.

Tabletting Formulations

Tabletting formulations typically include various ingredients, such as binders, fillers, lubricants, colourings, and flavourings. The active ingredient is usually mixed with various other ingredients to bind them together and form a tablet. The ingredients used in the formulation of a tablet vary depending on the type of tablet, such as immediate release, controlled release, or delayed release, as well as the desired release rate. Common ingredients used in tablet formulations include microcrystalline cellulose, lactose, corn starch, magnesium stearate, and sodium lauryl sulfate.

Advantages of Tablets

  • Tablets offer several advantages over other dosage forms, such as liquids or powders. They are easy to store, transport, and dispense, as well as for the patient to take. Tablets are also ideal for taking multiple medications as they can be divided into smaller doses. Tablets also offer a longer shelf life than other dosage forms and can provide consistent and accurate doses.
  • Tablets are formulated to be taken orally and should not be chewed, broken, or crushed, as this can alter the release rate of the active ingredient. The release rate is important, as it determines the time it takes for the medication to reach its target site in the body and begin to work. Different types of tablets can be formulated to provide different release rates, such as extended release, controlled release, and immediate release tablets.
  • Tablets are also easier to control than liquids or powders, as the dosage can be pre-measured and set to a specific amount. This helps to ensure that the patient is taking the correct dose of medication. Tablets can also provide sustained release of the active ingredient, allowing a single dose of medication to last for an extended period.
  • Tablets are also more convenient than other dosage forms. They are easy to transport and store and can easily be taken with food or liquids. Tablets can also be taken anywhere, as they do not require refrigeration or special storage conditions.

In conclusion, tablets offer several advantages over other dosage forms. They are easy to store, transport, dispense and provide consistent and accurate doses. They also offer convenience and can be taken anywhere, with or without food or liquids.

Disadvantages of Tablets

  • Tablets have several disadvantages as well. Tablets are usually more expensive than other dosage forms, such as liquids or powders. In addition, tablets can be difficult to swallow, especially for young children or those with difficulty swallowing. Tablets can also be difficult to divide into smaller doses, as they are usually compressed into specific shapes and sizes. Furthermore, tablets can be affected by environmental conditions, such as humidity and temperature, which can alter their effectiveness.
  • Tablets can also be difficult to control, as they can be affected by the environment in which they are taken. For example, tablets can be affected by food or liquid in the stomach, which can alter the absorption rate of the active ingredient. Tablets can also be affected by changes in the body, such as changes in pH levels or digestive enzyme activity.

In conclusion, tablets have several disadvantages. They are typically more expensive than other dosage forms and can be difficult to swallow. In addition, tablets can be difficult to divide into smaller doses and can be affected by environmental conditions. Finally, tablets can be difficult to control, as they can be affected by changes in the body or food or liquid in the stomach.

Is There Any Difference Between Tablets and Pills?

Yes, there is a difference between tablets and pills. Tablets are solid dosage forms consisting of a mixture of an active ingredient and other excipients, such as binders, fillers, and disintegrates. Tablets can be either coated or uncoated. Pills, however, are smaller and contain only the active ingredient. They are usually round, oblong, or capsule-shaped. Pills are easier to swallow than tablets and are often used for medications that need to be absorbed quickly.

How Tablets works?

Tablets release the active ingredient or ingredients into the body over time. The active ingredient is released by the tablet's disintegrating agents, which break down the tablet into tiny particles that the body can absorb. This slow release of the active ingredient helps to maintain a consistent level of the drug in the body, allowing it to be effective.

How Do Pills Work?

Pills deliver a drug to the body that can be easily and quickly absorbed. When the pill is swallowed, it is broken down in the stomach and absorbed into the bloodstream. The drug then travels throughout the body and binds to certain receptors, resulting in the desired effect. Depending on the type of pill and the drug it contains, the effects can vary from reducing pain and inflammation to treating a wide range of illnesses.

Overall, tablets are an essential form of medication, offering several advantages over other dosage forms. They are easy to store, transport, and dispense and provide consistent and accurate doses. In addition, they must be manufactured to the highest possible standards to ensure they are safe and effective.


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