Publication:

Evaluating the challenges of oral drug administration in children: a review

Oral drug administration is the most preferred method for delivering medication to pediatric patients due to its convenience and non-invasive nature. However, this method presents several unique challenges that can impact the effectiveness and safety of pharmacological treatments. Among these challenges are formulation issues, dosing difficulties, potential adverse effects and complications with measuring tools. Children often refuse to take their medication for various reasons, such as unpleasant tastes or textures, making it difficult for caregivers to ensure consistent adherence to treatment. While liquid formulations are generally more suitable for younger children, they often face issues related to taste and volume, which can render them unpalatable and increase the risk of non-compliance. Addressing these challenges is essential for improving medication adherence, ensuring proper drug delivery and enhancing therapeutic outcomes in pediatric populations. The involvement of caregivers and healthcare providers is crucial in managing these difficulties. They must educate children and their families on proper medication administration techniques and adherence to individualized dosing regimens. Furthermore, the lack of standardized pediatric formulations and dosage forms remains a significant barrier, often leading to the use of adult medications that may not be appropriate for children. This review highlights the urgent need for more child-friendly drug formulations, alternative drug delivery systems and additional research into the effects of developmental pharmacokinetics.