Tablets Outperform Liquid Medicines for Young Patients in GOS Study

A project conducted by Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) has demonstrated that switching children and young people from liquid medications to tablet formulations can significantly improve quality of life while reducing healthcare costs for the NHS.

The findings, published on 10 April 2026, indicate that many children are prescribed liquid medicines despite evidence suggesting that most children aged four and over can safely learn how to swallow tablets.

Impact on Congenital Hyperinsulinism Treatment

The GOSH endocrinology team, led by Consultant in Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes Dr Antonia Dastamani and Clinical Nurse Specialist Kate Morgan, focused the project on patients with Congenital Hyperinsulinism (CHI).

CHI is a rare genetic condition affecting approximately one in every 30,000 to 40,000 children globally. The condition causes the body to produce excessive insulin, which can lead to dangerously low blood glucose levels.

To manage CHI, patients often require diazoxide several times a day. While this medication was traditionally administered in liquid form, the project identified 19 patients, all aged seven or older, who could benefit from switching to a tablet formulation.

All 19 patients successfully transitioned to tablets, which provide the same therapeutic benefit as the liquid version. Throughout the process, the medical team closely monitored the patients to ensure their blood glucose levels remained stable.

Financial and Quality of Life Benefits

The transition to tablets resulted in substantial cost savings. For some medicines, the change could save up to £40,000 per patient per year.

Specifically regarding diazoxide, the cost difference is stark. Tablets cost £1.15 per 50mg, whereas the liquid formulation costs more than £15.50 per 50mg.

Beyond the financial impact, patients reported a better quality of life. The tablets are easier to take and avoid the unpleasant taste associated with the liquid medicine.

It has made a big difference taking medicine that doesn’t taste horrible. There were times where I didn’t want to take it because of the taste,

Jess, an 11-year-old patient

Jess also noted that the switch helped her manage her condition more independently.

Broader Healthcare Implications

The project is part of the GOSH green plan 2024 to 2027. Following the success with diazoxide, the hospital is now exploring the potential to switch formulations for additional drugs.

The GOSH endocrinology team is also looking into supporting younger patients with CHI to make the switch to tablets.

The National Pharmacy Association (NPA) has expressed support for the research, noting that moving children from liquid medicines to tablets can transform their lives by making it easier for them to adhere to their treatment regimens.