Estudos de palatabilidade de medicamentos: análise sensorial e aceitabilidade de formulações pediátricas

Abstract

Introduction: Children often reject non-palatable medications. Pediatric formulations contain sweeteners and flavorings to mask the unpleasant taste and avoid problems in administration and adherence. Taste assessment is an essential part of the development of oral liquid medicines. Objective: This paper aims to contextualize assessment and influence of palatability on the acceptance of pediatric medicines. Method: Narrative review of the literature through the electronic databases PubMed and Google Scholar. Articles related to the development of formulations, use of electronic tongue, and abstracts without access to the complete work were not considered. Results: Flavor is considered one of the main determinants for medications’ adhesion in pediatrics. Access to palatable and safe pediatric formulations can have a substantial effect on infant morbidity. Adults and children appreciate flavors in different ways, so sensory testing with children is the most reliable method regarding formulations for this population. Studies of sensory perception and acceptance of medications already used by children may be ethically feasible, given the concerns about research with children. Conclusions: Sensory analyzes should be carried out whenever there is a new formulation to be introduced on the market, addressed to different age brackets and cultural contexts, in order to assess the product’s acceptability