Tablet splitting: a review of the clinical and economic outcomes and patient acceptance. Second of a 2-part series. Part 1 was published in May 2012 (Consult Pharm 2012;27:239-53).
OBJECTIVE
To describe the clinical outcomes, patient acceptance, and economic effect associated with tablet splitting.


METHODS
PubMed (1966-June 2011) and International Pharmaceutical Abstract (1975-June 2011) searches were conducted using tablet splitting as the search terms.


METHODS
All studies that evaluated the clinical outcome (n = 4), patient acceptance (n = 5), and economic effects (n = 8) of tablet splitting were included.


METHODS
The American Pharmacists Association guidelines, recommendations from the Food and Drug Administration, and clinical trial data were evaluated.


RESULTS
The majority of trials conducted evaluating clinical outcomes associated with tablet splitting were evaluated in patients receiving statins and antihypertensives. Clinical outcomes associated with risperidone were assessed. No adverse clinical outcomes were observed with therapy. Most studies evaluating the economic effects of tablet splitting have revealed a cost savings associated with this process; however, many studies were subject to limitations. The first part of this two-part series reviewed the weight and content uniformity in tablet splitting.


CONCLUSIONS
Tablet splitting does not seem to significantly affect clinical outcomes related to management of hypertension, cholesterol, or psychiatric disorders, nor influence overall patient adherence.
Samford University Global Drug Information Service, McWhorter School of Pharmacy, Birmingham, AL 35229-7027, USA. mkelly@samford.edu
Maisha Kelly
MK
Freeman
Whitney
W
White
Maryam
M
Iranikhah
D017046:Cost Savings / Q000191:economics*; D016527:Drug Costs; D006801:Humans; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care; D010349:Patient Compliance; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D010595:Pharmacists / Q000191:economics; D013607:Tablets / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000191:economics*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations; D013607:Tablets