Document Detail


Crushing or Splitting Medications: Unrecognized Hazards.
MedLine Citation:
PMID:  22224840     Owner:  NLM     Status:  Publisher    
Abstract/OtherAbstract:
Given the high use and the cost of medications in the current economy, one way older adults may save money on prescription costs is to split some of their medications in half. However, not all oral medications can be split. Splitting inappropriate medications such as extended-release tablets can be harmful and in some instances very dangerous. In addition to splitting medications, older adults who have difficulty swallowing pills may resort to crushing the medication for ease of administration. This option is also problematic and potentially harmful if the medication is not intended to be crushed. Clinicians managing the care of older adults need to discuss medication administration, clarify the dosing schedule, and clearly indicate the route of administration. Patients should be cautioned not to split or crush a medication without checking with the health care provider or pharmacist.
Authors:
Donna Gill; Margaret Spain; Barbara J Edlund
Publication Detail:
Type:  JOURNAL ARTICLE     Date:  2011-12-29
Journal Detail:
Title:  Journal of gerontological nursing     Volume:  -     ISSN:  0098-9134     ISO Abbreviation:  -     Publication Date:  2011 Dec 
Date Detail:
Created Date:  2012-1-9     Completed Date:  -     Revised Date:  -    
Medline Journal Info:
Nlm Unique ID:  7510258     Medline TA:  J Gerontol Nurs     Country:  -    
Other Details:
Languages:  ENG     Pagination:  1-5     Citation Subset:  -    
Copyright Information:
Copyright 2011, SLACK Incorporated.
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