Medication is often responsible for clogged feeding tubes. To prevent clogs, adverse reactions, interactions and other related issues, follow these six tips for giving medication through a feeding tube:
- Administer each medication separately.
- Stop the feeding and flush the tube with water before and after medication administration.
- Crush only those medications which are immediate-release. Sustained-release and enteric-coated medications don’t dissolve well and may not absorb properly when crushed.
- Use liquid medications when available.
- Dilute liquid medications to prevent clogging and gastrointestinal upset, like diarrhea.
- Ask the doctor or pharmacist if you’re not sure whether or not certain medications are ideal for the feeding tube.
Flushing feeding tubes properly can also help prevent clogs caused by dried formula and/or medications. Click here for simple steps to unclog a G-tube at home. You can also watch a video about how to unclog a G-tube at home.
For more tube-feeding tips and nutritional support, visit our online Nutrition Community.
For more information, see related enteral nutrition articles and resources here:
- ENFit Feeding Sets, Tubes and Syringes: 2017
- Enteral Nutrition Support Newsletter – GROW Pediatric Program Edition
- Blenderized Formula for Home Tube Feeding
- Tube Feeding: How to Gravity Feed Video
- Infinity Pump Training Video
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This article is is tended for educational use only and does not replace the advice of a medical professional. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your medications, contact your healthcare provider.
