Have you ever wondered about tablets that can dissolve in water without stirring? How they are made and what they are used for?
Well, these are unique tablets called effervescent tablets. Today, we will explore all the critical fundamental aspects of these unique tablets.
What are Effervescent Tablets?
These are tablets produced from the compression of effervescence granules. Usually, the final tablet dissolve in water forming effervescence and a fizzy solution that can be consumed orally.
When mixed with water, effervescent tablets produce carbon dioxide gas. This is a chemical reaction between tartaric acids or citric acid and carbonates or sodium bicarbonates which are present in the tablets.
How Effervescent Tablets Work
Since the effervescent granules contain organic acid, when placed in water, there is a chemical reaction. This chemical reaction manifests in form carbon dioxide which appears as gas bubbles.
Remember, this dissolving helps in easy ingestion and absorption.
During ingestion of the drug solution, there is high levels of carbonate salt. The gastric PH is temporarily elevated which results to fast gastric emptying. As a result, it promotes drug absorption from the duodenum.
How Effervescent Tablets are Made
Well, the process follows the normal pill press.
Choosing Tablet Ingredients
These tablets are composed ofacid sources such as citric acid and tartaric acid. Other ingredients include sodium bi carbonate which is alkaline, vitamins, and minerals.
At the same time, they contain medications which are the active ingredients, desiccants to absorb moisture and different flavors to improve on taste.
Granulation
This stage is done in two steps, the first step is done by alkaline, or acid components subsequently dry blending is performed. This is a crucial step where running time and cleaning processes are done.
Here, you will try to obtain chemical by adding a specific quantity of demineralized water that provokes partial effervescent reaction.
All these ingredients are sieved to ensure uniform particle sizes for consistent mixing and dried thoroughly to prevent moisture triggered reaction.
Water is also used as a granulation fluid. in this reaction, carbon dioxide is released.
Blending
In a low humid environment, the ingredients are carefully and gently mixed together to avoid premature effervescence, and creation of too much heat.
A lubricant is also added to the tablets. This helps prevent the tablets from sticking.
Also, when magnesium stearate is used, a film will be present on the water after dissolving the tablets.
Tablet Compression
Here, you will need a highly effectivetablet press machine.
These effervescent tablets are always larger than normal tablets hence can be easily broken or damaged. Always keep this in mind.
During effervescent tablet compression process, the machine fills cavities with the right powder. Using the upper punch and die system, the machine compresses powder into a compact solid.
The materials are compressed into the tablets and moisture that is absorbed from the air decreases.
Quality Control
After the effervescent tablet compression, each batch is tested for quality assurance. The tests include disintegration tests to ensure that the tablets dissolve quickly and completely when put in water.
Other tests include carbon dioxide release to ensure that correct amount is released and absorbed by the body.
Another important test include stability and shelve life, uniformity of active ingredients. These tests are important to ensure the tablets are safe and effective for use.
More importantly, quality control is also needed for compliance with regulations in accordance with the pharmacy and pharmaceutical products.
Packaging
Effervescent packaging is a critical process to ensure your tablets maintain high quality standards.You will need effervescent packaging machine.
Blister packs, foil pouches and aluminum tubes with desiccant caps are often used because they are moisture proof packaging materials. These materials are preferred because humidity may destroy the tablets since effervescent tablets are highly sensitive to moisture.
Additionally, drying agents such as silica gel are also included into the tubes.
Once you have the right packaging material and machine, you will place tablets in the hopper. Switch on the machine and allow it to automatically form the packaging container, fill with tablets, seal and label.
Key Benefits of Effervescent Tablets
Fast Absorption
As compared to other tablets, effervescent tablets dissolve in water quickly allowing easy absorption in the body.
Easy to Swallow
When dissolved in water it creates a drinkable solution that is easy to ingest, especially for people who have trouble swallowing pills.
Good Bioavailability
Adequate dissolving and absorption of the tablets resulting to high bioavailability and effectiveness in the body.
Encourages Hydration
Since these tablets are dissolved in water to be ingested, it increases fluid intake which is beneficial for health.
Gentle on the Stomach
The fizzy effect of effervescence reduce irritation making it gentle on the stomach as compared to other tablets.
Improved Flavor and Taste
As compared to other tablets, effervescent tablets are incorporated with flavors that improve taste making them enjoyable to take. This can be more beneficial to children.
Precautions when using Effervescent Tablets
· Storage
Store in a cool dry place. Effervescent tablets are sensitive to moisture hence when exposed can affect the drug potency. Do not use drugs that have become dump.
· Overuse
Always use these tablets as directed by your doctor since overdosing can affect your liver. Those that contain vitamin c and calcium can be harmful to your body if overused. Complications such as diarrhea hypercalcemia, nausea, constipation and bone pains can be expected.
· Drug Contraindications
Hypertensive patients may be at risk. This is because these tablets can elevate their blood pressure because of sodium. Patients with kidney stones are also at risk due to their diet since effervescent tablets have sodium that can worsen kidney stones.
· Allergic Reactions
Rashes, itchiness and swelling are common allergies that can be expected. Watch out for these symptoms and report to your doctor as soon as possible.
· Dissolve
Do not chew or swallow. dissolve in water completely then swallow the solution.
Uses of Effervescent Tablets
Gastrointestinal relief:Tablets with sodium bicarbonate can be used to ease indigestion and heartburn.
Pain relief:Pain medication such as paracetamol or aspirin have a higher efficacy when dissolved in water. This is because there is quick absorption and gentle effects on the stomach.
For electrolytes replacement: At times illnesses can compromise sodium levels in the body. This is also common during heavy exercises that result in a lot of sweating. In such cases, effervescence tablets with sodium, magnesium and potassium can be used to help rehydrate lost salts.
Those with alkalizing agents are used as a specialized medical treatment on conditions such as urinary tract infections to prevent recurrent UTIs.
Convenient hydration: It encourages water intake which is of benefit to health and those patients with dehydration.
Optimal compatibility: They have a balanced ratios of acids and carbonates that are friendly to the stomach.
FAQs
What are the disadvantages of effervescent tablets?
Here are some common limitations of effervescent tablets:
- Some of these drugs are quite expensive.
- Requires special production facilities.
- They are bulky hence available in large tablets.
- Have a complex production process.
- Delicate when packaging.
Are there side effects of using effervescent tablets?
Yes.
Nausea diarrhea, anxiety, skin rashes are just but a few side effects of effervescent tablets due to its contents.
Who can use effervescent tablets?
Effervescent tablets are suitable for use among many individuals including:
- Patients that are elderly and children who struggle with swallowing.
- Patients who need rapid symptom relief that wants quick absorption i.e. during headaches.
- People with digestive sensitivities.
- Patients recovering from illnesses where digestion is compromised.
- Individuals that need great rehydration such as those involved in intense physical activities.
Conclusion
Clearly, effervescent tablets play an important role in modern medical and pharmaceutical industry. However, to produce these tablets, you should choose high quality material, efficient tablet press and effervescent table packaging machine.
