4 Things To Know If You Have Trouble Swallowing Your Prescription Pills

20 October 2014

Jaime Allen

If you are someone who takes prescription medications daily, it can be a challenge to take your pills. Prescription pills come in all different sizes, and some of them can be hard to swallow. If you are having a problem swallowing your pills, here are four things you need to know that may help you:

1. Hide it in Yogurt

One thing that may help you to swallow your pills more easily is to put your pill in food. Once it's out of sight, it may be out of mind. For example, putting one of your pills into a spoonful yogurt can make the pill easier to swallow. The thickness of the yogurt will hide the pill and carry it down your throat. Plus, yogurt has good bacteria which can help ease your stomach if you are taking antibiotics. 

2. Drink Some Soda

Carbonated beverages can sometimes help you to swallow your pills. Simply take a sip and put the pill as far back on your tongue as you can, and swallow both the beverage and the pill in one gulp. The sweet flavor can ease your gag reflex. 

3. Try to Relax

If you take a lot of pills as part of your medication regime and have a small time swallowing them all, you may feel some feelings of anxiety. The anxiety can actually stop you from swallowing your pills easily. Therefore, it is important that you relax. Try to take your pills with a tasty lunch or dinner; after successfully taking a pill, you can reward yourself with a relaxing meal.

Before attempting to swallow a pill, take a deep breath and visualize yourself swallowing the pill without a problem. Place the pill on the back of your tongue, but don't force it if you aren't feeling good--you don't want to choke! If you relax and go slowly, you may discover that taking your pill is a little easier to do.

4. Don't Crush Your Pills

Unless your doctor has given you direct permission to crush your pills, do not do it. Some pills cannot be crushed, because that affects how effective they are in your body. Not only that, but some medications have residue that can be harmful to your lungs if inhaled. Even if you have a difficult time swallowing the pills you are prescribed, don't alter them without the permission of your physician.

Many people have difficulty swallowing their pills, so don't feel discouraged or think there is nothing you can do. If you still have problems swallowing your medication after reading this article, talk to your doctor about sending your medication to a compounding pharmacy, like Potter's House Apothecary, Inc. A compounding pharmacy employs an apothecary or pharmacist who can create a special version of your medication so that it is easier for you to take. Taking your medication regularly is important, so be sure you do everything in your power to make this process easier.

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