Splitting tablets

Patients split tablets for a variety of reasons, however there are problems associated with this process. Tabletrelated factors include inaccuracy in splitting tablets and the resultant dose fluctuations, increased degradation of drug as a result of exposure to air and alterations in the dissolution rate of some formulations. Even when commercial tablet cutters are used the accuracy of splitting may be variable. Patients may experience difficulty in splitting tablets especially if their dexterity, eyesight or cognition is impaired. Compliance is likely to be decreased if the regimen requires tablets to be split. Although splitting tablets may potentially save the patient money the possible impact on the quality of medication use must be considered.