Posted by Murphia on November 11, 2003, at 12:37:02
In reply to Re: Cutting Your Pills in Half- esp. extended release » Nissy, posted by chicago77 on October 27, 2003, at 9:01:38
Topamax (topiramate) does not come in extended release. Sprinkles caps are to take apart and sprinkle on food if you desire. You can also swallow them as a capsule.
> > What about seeing the little white balls that are inside the capsule in your stool? I am on effexor XR and I see those white balls all the time. Does this mean my body isn't metabolizing them or absorbing the medication? Do you know anything about this?
>
> Nissy,
> I fact I do know about this. This is what I believe is called "sprinkles." There are quite a few meds that are capsules with "balls" inside. You will notice that these are all extended release formulations. This works the same way in that your body first processes the cap to release the sprinkles, then the "balls" are metabolized similarly to a controlled release tab. So, yes, you're body is using the drug and, no, it's no reason for concern. Talk to your doc if it really bothers/worries you.
> I do believe that this is one of the exceptions about breaking open capsules. The gelatin capsule dissolves pretty rapidly and the sprinkles are released and go to work. On the other hand, capsules with powder are meant to be taken whole b/c the powder would start to absorb in your mouth, esophagus, etc... before it gets to your stomach. You may want to double check this with a pharmacist. From what I remember, "sprinkle" caps can be opened and (go figure) "sprinkled" over food or mixed in with something like apple sauce for those that may not be able to take it whole (esp. children and the elderly). Hope this was helpful, but remember that I am not an expert on this just b/c I have some experience with it. Be sure to follow your health care provider's instructions and any information provided with your Rx. And ASK as many questions as you want!! This is your health!!
> Side note: I am working on my Master's degree to become a Physician Assistant. This is why you will often see me refer to a "health care provider" rather than your "doc." Keep in mind too that PAs are specifically trained to provide patient information and education, and we tend to spend quite a bit more time with patients until all questions are resolved. If there is a PA in the office/clinic that you go to, don't be afraid to talk to them seperately if you feel that your doc isn't "getting the job done." I give a 99% guarantee that you will be very happy with their service and caring!!
poster:Murphia
thread:50878
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20031111/msgs/278580.html