Swallowing pills (problems)
Legal issues
Anurse or carer of someone withdysphagia shouldn't alter the form of a medicine by crushing or opening it, unless they've been instructed to do so by a doctor.
If you crush or open the medicine to give to another person, you're administering itin an unlicensed form. If you haven't consulted a doctor about it, this would render you personally liable for any harm caused, and you would have to justify your actions in the event of an adverse reaction.
The Swallowing Difficulties website has more information about the legal consequences of tablet crushing.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
If you or someone you care for struggles to swallow pills, you should discuss it with your doctor or pharmacist.
Finding an alternative form
If you or the person you care forfinds it difficult to swallow tablets or capsules, you can ask your GP or pharmacistif there's an alternative form of the medicine. TheSwallowing Difficulties websitea
Crushing tablets or opening capsules
You can ask your GP or pharmacist if your tablets can be crushed, or your capsules opened and dispersed in water, before taking them. Only certain tablets or capsules can be given this way. The follow
Legal issues
Anurse or carer of someone withdysphagia shouldn't alter the form of a medicine by crushing or opening it, unless they've been instructed to do so by a doctor. If you crush or open the medicine to giv
10 tips for swallowing pills
1. Moisten your mouth with saliva or water beforehand (a dry mouth makes swallowing harder). 2. Place the pill in the centre of your tongue, and lengthways along your tongue if the pill is oval-shaped
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