Problems swallowing pills
Lots of people find it hard to swallow pills. There are things you can try to make it easier and a pharmacist can offer advice.
How to make it easier to swallow pills
Do
- take pills with water – you could also try taking them with something like yoghurt or fruit purée
- lean forward slightly when you swallow
- practice swallowing with small sweets or bits of jelly – try bigger pieces as swallowing gets easier
Don't
- do not throw pills towards the back of your throat
- do not tip your head back too much when you swallow – this can make swallowing more difficult
- do not crush pills, open capsules or alter your medicine without getting medical advice – this could stop the medicine working properly
Good pill swallowing techniques
"Lean forward" technique:
Media last reviewed: 31/10/2017
Next review due: 31/10/2020
"Pop bottle" technique:
Media last reviewed: 31/10/2017
Next review due: 31/10/2020
Important
Don't try these tips if you also have difficulty swallowing food and drink (not just pills), as you might choke. See a pharmacist or GP for advice.
A pharmacist can help if you can't swallow pills
A pharmacist can advise you about:
- other versions of your medicine that might be available – for example, you might be able to get it as a liquid or dissolvable tablet
- crushing, dividing or opening up tablets and capsules – this should only be done on their advice
Causes of swallowing problems
Problems swallowing pills can be due to:
- fear of choking – this can make your throat tense and narrow when you try to swallow
- a dry mouth
- general swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) – for example, due to a condition such as a stroke