Tablet splitting: influence of technique and tablet format

Tablet splitting is a commonly used technique to obtain half of the dose or to facilitate tablet intake. However, there is a risk of not obtaining the correct dose and the efficacy depends on factors such as splitting method and tablet characteristics. Objective: To assess significant differences regarding tablet format or splitting method, regarding loss of mass and splitting accuracy. Methods: Volunteers split ten formulations by hand or using a kitchen knife. Results were treated in order to verify compliance with European Pharmacopeia standards for tablet splitting and recommendations on loss of mass. SPSS was used to assess significant differences between the two methods and tablet format when analysing loss of mass or splitting accuracy. Results: Of the twenty formulation/method combinations, only five complied with all the criteria. There was a significant difference regarding methods and loss of mass, with splitting by hand being the one to achieve the best results. Oblong tablets scored significantly better regarding loss of mass and splitting accuracy. Conclusion: Results seem to indicate that best results can be achieved when splitting tablets if using oblong tablets and splitting them by hand.