The Adverse Effects and Events of Thickened Liquid Use in Adults: A Systematic Review
American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology
Werden Abrams, S., Gandhi, P., et al. (2023).
American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology, 32(5), 2331-2350.
This systematic review investigates the adverse effects and events of thickened liquid use in individuals with dysphagia.
No funding received
From database inception to February 2022
Original research studies
33
<div>All studies reported at least one adverse effect related to the use of thickened liquids in adults with dysphagia. </div>
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<li>Eighteen studies reported reduced quality of life.</li>
<li>Twelve studies reported aspiration. </li>
<li>Eight studies reported reduced intake. </li>
<li>Five reported dehydration.</li>
<li>Four reported pneumonia.</li>
<li>Four reported increased post-swallow residue.</li>
<li>Other adverse effects/events reported included death (2 studies), urinary tract infection (1 study), hospitalization (1 study), and delayed bioavailability of medications (2 studies). </li>
</ul>
<div>Limitations to this review include potential biases in what qualifies as an adverse effect/event, variable and less evidence-based methods to assess for the presence of adverse events, and reduced methodological rigor of some included studies. Additional research is indicated. </div>
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