Tablets That Shouldn't Be Crushed

It's important to note that the list of medications that should not be crushed can vary, and the decision to crush a medication should always be made in consultation with a healthcare professional.

However, some general categories of medications that are commonly not recommended to be crushed include:

1. Enteric-coated medications: These medications have a special coating designed to protect the drug from stomach acid and prevent irritation. Crushing them may interfere with their intended release.
2. Extended-release or sustained-release formulations: These medications are designed to release the drug slowly over time. Crushing them can alter the release mechanism, leading to an unintended rapid release of the medication.
3. Sublingual or buccal medications: Medications designed to be absorbed under the tongue or inside the cheek should not be crushed, as this can affect their absorption.
4. Orally disintegrating tablets (ODT): Crushing ODTs can impact their rapid dissolving nature, making them less effective.
5. Certain capsules: Some capsules contain granules or beads with different release times. Crushing these capsules may alter the drug's release profile.
6. Bitter-tasting medications: Crushing certain medications may expose the patient to an unpleasant taste, potentially affecting adherence.

It's important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or pharmacist, to get specific guidance on whether a particular medication can be crushed and, if so, how to do it properly. Always follow the instructions provided by a healthcare provider and on the medication's label.