Summary
What is known and Objectives: A problem that often affects antihypertensive drugs is the lack of formulations appropriate for childhood. Parents, therefore, crush tablets and administer the antihypertensive drug mixed with solid food or a palatable drink. Because palatability is a major modulator of adherence to prescribed medication, the palatability of crushed ß‐blockers, converting enzyme inhibitors and thiazides was assessed among adult volunteers.
Methods: The palatability of crushed atenolol, bisoprolol, enalapril, lisinopril, ramipril, chlorthalidone and hydrochlorothiazide was evaluated by means of a facial hedonic scale among 20 volunteers. The calcium channel‐blockers amlodipine and lercanidipine whose tastes are disliked and liked, respectively, by children were also tested. A concealed random allocation procedure was used.
Results: The palatability scores assigned to chlorthalidone, hydrochlorothiazide and lisinopril were superior (P < 0·002) to those assigned to atenolol, bisoprolol, enalapril and ramipril. As with children, the palatability score of lercanidipine was superior to that of amlodipine (P < 0·002). The scores assigned to the various agents were similar in women and in men and were age‐independent.
What is new and Conclusion: Pulverized atenolol, bisoprolol, enalapril and ramipril are poor tasting. From the perspective of palatability, pulverized chlorthalidone, hydrochlorothiazide and lisinopril are preferable.
| Authors: |
|
Zgraggen, L.; Faré, P. B.; Lava, S. A. G.; Simonetti, G. D.; Fossali, E. F.; Amoruso, C.; Bianchetti, M. G. |
| Journal: |
|
Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics
|
| Year: |
|
2012 |
| Pages: |
|
no |
| DOI: |
|
10.1111/j.1365-2710.2011.01330.x |
| Publication date: |
|
04-04-2012 |