How to Swallow a Pill

For many people, swallowing a pill is a torturous process that often leaves them with a soggy pill in their sink and nothing in their stomach. These steps can help you swallow a tablet, capsule or gel cap so that you don't even know it's there.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Have the pill ready. Place it on the counter next to a full glass of water.
2. Take a couple sips of water. This will help relax you and wet your throat.
3. Take a big mouthful of water, but don't swallow. Tilt your head back, open your mouth slightly, and then drop the pill in your mouth. If the pill is oval or rectangular in shape (anything other than round) drop it lengthwise so it can slide down easier.
4. Close your mouth, tilt your head forward just slightly and swallow.
5. Finish the entire glass of water.
6. Try these variations if Steps 1 to 5 don't work. Embed your pill in edible food, such as Jell-O or pudding, but first check with your pharmacist to be sure the pill won't be affected by foods. Also, you can spray your throat with an antiseptic used for sore throats beforehand to numb your throat. Lastly, you can wash down the pill with a carbonated beverage straight from the bottle. Focusing on the bubbles and the mouthpiece of the bottle will help distract you from the pill.
7. Consult your doctor at your next check up if you feel strongly that this may be a medical condition. Dysphagia is a condition that makes it difficult to swallow in general. If you are able to swallow foods and liquids easily any other time, this probably is not the case, but talking to your doctor may give you the peace of mind you need.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice with small cake sprinkles.