True or False: Pills and tablets are the same dosage form and are prepared in the same way.

Pills and tablets are not synonymous, and they are prepared using different methods, which makes the statement false.

Pills are generally considered to be a type of dosage form that was traditionally made by grinding medicinal substances and then forming them into round masses. Historically, pills could also include materials like sugar or other excipients to aid in business or handling. The method of preparation for pills can vary widely and includes techniques that do not necessarily involve compressing a powder.

In contrast, tablets are solid dosage forms made by compressing powdered ingredients, including active pharmaceutical ingredients and excipients, into specific shapes. This compression process allows for a consistent dosage and uniformity in size and shape. Tablets can be further classified (e.g., coated, uncoated, immediate-release, sustained-release), each with specific methods of production.

Understanding these distinctions is critical, as they can affect the drug’s formulation, release characteristics, and overall effectiveness. Therefore, the statement is false, confirming that pills and tablets are different dosage forms prepared in different ways.