From the Research
It is generally not recommended to break Pritor (Telmisartan) + Amlodipine combination tablets in half. These fixed-dose combination tablets are designed to deliver specific amounts of both medications simultaneously and may not have a score line that would allow for accurate splitting. Breaking the tablet could potentially alter the release pattern of the medications and lead to inconsistent dosing, as noted in a study on tablet splitting 1. This is particularly important for blood pressure medications like these, where consistent drug levels are crucial for effective blood pressure control.
Some key points to consider when evaluating the suitability of breaking tablets include:
- The properties of the active component, such as light sensitivity
- The galenics, or the formulation of the tablet
- The shape of the tablet and the shape of the scoreline, if present
- The patient's ability and willingness to split tablets correctly
Additionally, some formulations may have special coatings or controlled-release mechanisms that would be compromised by splitting, which could affect the efficacy and safety of the medication, as discussed in the context of telmisartan and amlodipine combination therapy 2, 3, 4. If you're having difficulty swallowing the tablet or need a dose adjustment, consult your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your specific situation and potentially prescribe the individual components (separate telmisartan and amlodipine tablets) at appropriate doses, or suggest an alternative medication regimen that better suits your needs. An older study highlighted the potential for error in drug dosing when breaking scored tablets, emphasizing the importance of careful consideration before splitting any tablet 5.