Effervescent tablets release bubbles of carbon dioxide gas when placed in water.

Effervescent tablets release bubbles of carbon dioxide gas when placed in water.

• A. Buccal tablets
• B. Effervescent tablets
• C. Capsules
• D. Troches

Answer: (B)

Effervescent tablets are designed to release gas when they come into contact with water. They contain an acid and a carbonate (or bicarbonate); when water is added, the acid reacts with the carbonate to produce carbon dioxide, which creates bubbles and fizzing. This reaction helps the tablet dissolve quickly and the drug dissolve in water for rapid onset. This behavior is specific to effervescent tablets. Other forms described—buccal tablets are meant to dissolve in the mouth for absorption through the cheek mucosa, capsules are gelatin shells containing drug, and troches (lozenges) are intended to dissolve slowly in the mouth for local effect—do not produce the characteristic fizz.

Effervescent tablets are designed to release gas when they come into contact with water. They contain an acid and a carbonate (or bicarbonate); when water is added, the acid reacts with the carbonate to produce carbon dioxide, which creates bubbles and fizzing. This reaction helps the tablet dissolve quickly and the drug dissolve in water for rapid onset. This behavior is specific to effervescent tablets. Other forms described—buccal tablets are meant to dissolve in the mouth for absorption through the cheek mucosa, capsules are gelatin shells containing drug, and troches (lozenges) are intended to dissolve slowly in the mouth for local effect—do not produce the characteristic fizz.