ARKRAY USA Inc launches Phazix, a swallowing gel developed to help people who have difficulty swallowing tablets, capsules and powders. It is reportedly the first product of its type available over the counter in the US market, according to the manufacturer.
Phazix is a thick, hyper-slippery smooth gel formulated to help moisten the mucous membranes in the mouth and throat cavity to allow for easy swallowing of tablets, capsules, and powders. To use Phazix, place approximately 1 teaspoon of the vanilla-flavored gel on a spoon along with one or more tablets.
Unlike food carriers, such as applesauce or pudding, that are commonly used to facilitate the swallowing of tablets, Phazix breaks down quickly in the stomach and does not affect the medication’s absorption rate, according to ARKRAY USA, in a media release.
“Difficulty swallowing medications is a serious healthcare issue that affects millions of people of all ages in the United States,” says Jonathan Chapman, Ppesident of ARKRAY USA, headquartered in Edina, Minn, in the release.
“Gagging, vomiting or choking on pills can be traumatizing. Phazix makes it easier for people who have trouble swallowing pills to adhere to their treatment plan.”
Phazix is intended for use by adults and by children age 2 and older. It is composed of more than 80% water and uses a gel-based chemistry for sheer strength that adheres to the medication from the mouth to the stomach, to materially reduce the likelihood that a pill will get stuck during swallowing. Once the medication reaches the stomach, Phazix quickly breaks away from the surface of the pill, allowing the medication to be digested as designed.
Phazix is available over the counter in a 2.5-ounce tube. Hospitals can purchase single-dose stick packs in 25-count packages.
[Source(s): ARKRAY USA Inc, PR Newswire]
