Overview

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 can take some pills with other drinks or food. Always read the instruction leaflet.
• lean forward slightly when you swallow
• practice swallowing with small sweets or bits of bread - 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 witout getting medical advice - this could stop the medicine working properly

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

Find a pharmacy.

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