Different age groups have specific needs and abilities, which influence the choice of formulation:
Infants: Infants often require liquid formulations due to their inability to swallow pills. These formulations allow for precise dosing accuracy and ease of administration, often with the help of a dropper or oral syringe. Toddlers: Toddlers may start transitioning to chewable or dispersible tablets but often still rely on liquid formulations. Taste and texture are critical at this age, as unpleasant flavors can lead to refusal to take medication. School-aged children: At this stage, children may be able to swallow pills, but chewable or orodispersible tablets are still popular due to their ease of use. The ability to follow instructions accurately also means more formulation options become available. Adolescents: Adolescents can typically handle adult formulations, though considerations around taste and dosing flexibility still apply.
