Over-the-counter medications: Terms

Over-the-counter medications are sold in many different forms that act as a mechanism for the safe and convenient delivery of accurate dosage.
Terms that describe the form of medication:

* Tablet -- a solid pill created by packing the active ingredient together with a binding agent.
* Geltab -- This is a tablet with a gelatin coating to aid in ease of swallowing.
* Capsule -- a hollow gelatin container that holds a powdered medication. Many people have an easier time swallowing capsules than they do swallowing ordinary tablets.
* Liquigel -- This capsule contains medicine that has been dissolved into liquid form to speed absorption by your body.
* Caplet-- Caplets are solid tablets in the shape of a capsule with a smooth coating. Caplets, like capsules, may go down more easily than ordinary tablets.
* Gelcap -- This is a caplet with a gelatin coating to aid in ease of swallowing.


Tablets ----------Geltabs ----------Capsules


Liquigel -------------Caplet ---------Gelcaps


These dosage forms may have integrated with certain features to maximize its absorption or to achieve optimal outcome after administration.
The following terms describe special features present in some medications.

* Buffered. A buffered medication contains an antacid to reduce acidity in the stomach.
* Combination formula. Products with this term contain two or more active ingredients.
* Enteric-coated. This special coating allows pills to pass undigested through your stomach and be dissolved in your small intestine, which helps reduce stomach irritation.
* Scored. These tablets have a groove in them, which allows you to more easily break them in half. Scored tablets may be useful if you need to take less than the amount in one dose, which may help limit side effects.
* Timed-release, extended-release or sustained-release. These products dissolve slowly. They prolong the effect of the medication by maintaining a sustained level of the active ingredient in your blood. Use them if you need lasting, not just immediate, relief. But don't crush or chew these products.

Check out thses terms at the drugs label. Understanding these terms will help you to choose the medication that's best for you!