Swallowing Medications

Many people have difficulty swallowing whole tablets or capsules or need a dosage less than one tablet in size. Crushing tablets, emptying capsules or cutting tablets is commonly done and is acceptable for many medications.     

   
Many tablets are scored (have an indented line across them) which allows them to be broken with the fingers easily. Cutting tablets which are not scored is most easily accomplished with a tablet cutter.

There are also many medications which cannot be cut or crushed. In general,  any medication which is extended release, sustained release, sustained action, slow release, time release, delayed release, repeat action, or enteric coated should not be cut or crushed, but there are exceptions.
   
When there are problems with a form of medication, it is best to call the pharmacy for clarification. Never just assume it is acceptable to cut or crush a  medication. Many medications come in liquid forms which can be substituted for  a tablet. Also, sometimes a similar medication is available in a more convenient dosage form,the pharmacist can call the physician to see if this other drug could be used instead.







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