How to Eat Capsules?

Swallowing capsules generally involves placing the capsule on your tongue, taking a drink of water, and swallowing. However, specific techniques can make it easier, especially with larger capsules.

Here's a breakdown of common methods and tips:

• General Method:

  1. Place the capsule on your tongue: Position the capsule towards the back of your tongue.
  2. Take a sip of water: Don't swallow yet.
  3. Tilt your head slightly forward: This can help prevent the capsule from floating to the back of your throat.
  4. Swallow the water and capsule together: Focus on swallowing smoothly.
  5. Follow up with more water: This ensures the capsule goes down completely and prevents it from sticking in your esophagus.

• The "Pop-Bottle" Method (for capsules that float):

  1. Fill a flexible plastic water bottle with water.
  2. Place the capsule on your tongue.
  3. Seal your lips tightly around the bottle opening.
  4. Tilt your head back and create a suction by sucking the water from the bottle. Swallow the water and the capsule simultaneously. The suction helps carry the capsule down. This method is useful for capsules that tend to float.

• Tips for Easier Swallowing:

  • Relax: Tension can make swallowing more difficult.
  • Lubricate: Taking a small sip of water before placing the capsule in your mouth can help.
  • Practice: If you have difficulty, practice with small candies like sprinkles to get comfortable with the swallowing motion.
  • Check with your doctor or pharmacist: If you consistently have trouble swallowing capsules, ask your doctor or pharmacist if the medication is available in a different form (e.g., liquid, chewable tablet).
  • Don't crush or open capsules unless advised by a healthcare professional: Some capsules are designed for delayed release, and crushing or opening them can affect how the medication works and may even be dangerous.

• Important Considerations:

  • Always follow the instructions provided with your medication.
  • If you experience persistent difficulty swallowing, consult a healthcare professional.
  • Never take capsules without water, as they could stick in your esophagus.