A ghost tablet, also known as a 'ghost pill', is the remnant of certain types of medications that passes through the digestive system and is excreted in the faeces.
Understanding Ghost Tablets
When you take some controlled-release (CR) medications, the drug is designed to be released slowly over time as the tablet or capsule passes through your gastrointestinal tract. These formulations often use a special outer shell or matrix that doesn't dissolve completely.
According to the provided reference, some CR drugs have insoluble parts that are excreted in faeces as 'ghost pills'.
Essentially, the medication active ingredient is released from this non-dissolving shell. Once the drug is absorbed by your body, the empty, insoluble shell continues its journey through your intestines and is eliminated in your stool.
Why Do They Exist?
The insoluble structure is a deliberate part of the drug's design. It's what allows the medication to be released gradually, maintaining a consistent level of the drug in your body over many hours. This is beneficial for conditions requiring steady drug levels, reducing the need for multiple doses throughout the day.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Often looks like the original tablet/capsule shell |
| Composition | Insoluble material (e.g., polymers) |
| Location Found | In faeces |
| Significance | Indicates drug was released as intended |
| Common With | Controlled-release (CR) medications |
Is It Normal?
Yes, finding a ghost tablet in your stool is completely normal and expected for many controlled-release formulations. It does not mean the medication didn't work or wasn't absorbed. It simply shows that the delivery system worked as intended, releasing the drug before the empty shell was eliminated.
Identifying Medications
Not all medications produce ghost tablets. This phenomenon is primarily associated with specific types of controlled-release or extended-release drugs. If you are unsure whether your medication might result in a ghost tablet, you can check the patient information leaflet or consult your pharmacist or doctor.
Examples of drug delivery systems that might result in a ghost tablet include:
- Osmotic Release Oral System (OROS) tablets
- Some matrix tablet formulations designed for slow erosion/release
It's important not to assume a medication is not working just because you observe a ghost tablet.
