1. Liquid: – different types of liquid medications

o – Solution – a liquid containing dissolved medication
o – Suspension – a liquid holding undissolved particles of medication that must be shaken before measuring and administering to resident
o – Syrup – a liquid medication dissolved in sugar water to disguise its taste
o – Elixir – a sweet alcohol-based solution in which medications are dissolved

 

      2. Solid: – Tablet/caplet Enteric-coated tablet

o Hard, compressed medication in the round, oval, or square shape

o Some have an enteric coating or other types of coatings, which delay the release of the drug and cannot be crushed or chewed

 

        3. Semi-solid:

o Capsule In a gelatin container that may be hard or soft. Dissolves quickly in the stomach;

o Capsule -a capsule that when swallowed releases one or more medicinal drugs over a set period;

o Suppository Small solid medicated substance, usually cone-shaped Melts at body temperature. May be administered by rectum or vagina Refrigerate as directed by the manufacturer.

 

      4. Topical medications applied directly to the skin surface.

Topical medications include the following:

o. Ointment -a semisolid substance for application of medication to the skin or eye

o Paste – a semisolid substance thicker and stiffer than an ointment containing medications

o Cream – semisolid preparation holding medication so it can be applied to the skin

o Shampoo – a liquid containing medication that is applied to the scalp and hair

o Patches (transdermal) – medication encased in a round, square, or oval disc that is affixed to the skin

o Powder – fine, ground form of medication that may be used to be swallowed, or may be used as on the skin for rashes

o Aerosol sprays – a solution that holds the medication suspended until it is dispensed in the form of a mist to spray on the skin

o Inhalant- Medication carried into the respiratory tract using air, oxygen or steam Inhalants may be used orally or nasally