Medication administration is a critical responsibility in hospital settings, but for patients with dysphagia (swallowing difficulties), it presents unique challenges. Crushing tablets or opening capsules is not always a safe solution, and improper administration can lead to choking hazards, reduced medication efficacy, and adverse reactions. 

To improve patient safety and treatment outcomes, hospitals must implement best practices for medication administration in dysphagic patients—and innovative solutions like Gloup® can play a key role. 

Why Dysphagia Matters in Hospital Settings 

Dysphagia affects a significant number of hospitalised patients, particularly older adults, stroke survivors, and individuals with neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and dementia. Research suggests that up to 68% of elderly hospital patients experience some degree of swallowing difficulty. 

If not properly managed, medication intake can become a serious safety risk for these patients, potentially leading to: 

• Aspiration pneumonia – Medications taken incorrectly can enter the airway, increasing the risk of lung infections. 
• Nutrient deficiencies and dehydration – If swallowing is difficult, patients may avoid food, water, and medications. 
• Reduced medication effectiveness – Some medications lose potency when crushed or mixed with food. 
• Compromised patient experience – Difficulty swallowing medication can cause stress, discomfort, and reduced compliance. 

Given these risks, hospitals must adopt evidence-based strategies to ensure safe, effective, and comfortable medication administration for dysphagic patients. 

Best Practices for Medication Administration in Dysphagic Patients 

1. Conduct a Thorough Swallowing Assessment 

Before prescribing or administering medication, healthcare professionals should assess the patient’s ability to swallow safely. Speech pathologists and dietitians can provide expert guidance on modifying medication intake. 

2. Choose the Right Medication Formulation 

Hospitals should collaborate with pharmacists to identify alternative formulations that are safer for patients with dysphagia, such as: 

• Liquid medications – Preferred when available, as they require less effort to swallow. 
• Dispersible or soluble tablets – Can be dissolved in water for easier intake. 
• Transdermal patches or sublingual medications – Bypass the need for swallowing altogether. 

In cases where tablets or capsules are the only option, a safe swallowing aid like Gloup® should be considered. 

3. Avoid Crushing Medications Without Proper Guidance 

Crushing tablets or opening capsules should not be done unless explicitly approved by a pharmacist, as it can: 

• Alter drug absorption – Some medications are designed for slow release, and crushing them can cause dangerous spikes in drug levels 
• Increase toxicity risks – Some medications, like hormonal or chemotherapy drugs, can be harmful if crushed and inhaled. 
• Reduce efficacy – Enteric-coated tablets are designed to bypass stomach acid, and crushing them makes them ineffective. 

Instead of crushing, hospitals should explore safe administration alternatives—this is where Gloup® comes in. 

Introducing Gloup®: A Safer Solution for Medication Administration 

Gloup® is a medication lubricant gel that helps tablets and capsules glide down smoothly, reducing the risk of choking and aspiration. It is designed specifically for patients with dysphagia who struggle to swallow their medications. 

Why Hospitals Should Integrate Gloup® Into Medication Administration 

• No known interactions with medications – Ensures drug efficacy remains intact. 
• 100% natural ingredients – Safe for hospital use, free from gluten and lactose. 
• Minimal impact on medication absorption – Unlike food-based alternatives, Gloup® breaks down immediately in the stomach. 
• Reduces patient discomfort – Available in pleasant flavours to mask the unpleasant taste of medication. 
• A safer alternative to crushing tablets – Helps hospitals comply with best practices for medication safety. 

Gloup® is an essential tool for hospital pharmacies, nurses, and aged care providers looking to enhance patient care. 

How Hospitals Can Implement Gloup® Into Their Medication Process with EASE 

Hospitals looking to improve medication administration for patients with swallowing difficulties can do so with EASE—a structured approach that prioritises safety, accessibility, and efficiency in medication management. 

By implementing Gloup with EASE , hospitals can enhance patient safety, improve medication adherence, and ensure a smoother medication intake process. 

Improve Medication Safety in Your Hospital and Aged Care with Gloup®

Dysphagia is a serious concern in hospital settings, and improper medication administration can lead to poor patient outcomes and increased risks. Hospitals that prioritise safe, effective, and patient-friendly medication intake will see higher compliance, improved treatment success, and enhanced patient experience. 

Make medication administration safer and easier with Gloup®. Order in bulk from Platinum Health Supply today.