For years I’ve subscribed to the University of California, Berkeley Wellness Letter: The Newsletter of Nutrition, Fitness, and Self-Care. It’s been rated No. 1 by journals such as U.S. News & World Report and the Washington Post. In the September 2006 issue (volume 22, Issue 12), they have a bit on taking meds. I’ve copied it here.
What Makes the Medicine Go Down?
If you have trouble swallowing pills, especially large ones, the following suggestions may help. Try different techniques to see what works for you.
- Before you begin, take a deep breath and exhale. This may help relax you and possibly even help inhibit your gag reflex.
- Take a swallow of water before you put the pill in your mouth, especially if you have a dry mouth.
- Put the pill as far back on your tongue as possible, and swallow with another sip. Using a thicker fluid, like milk, may help.
- Don’t throw your head back; this stretches the esophagus and makes it harder to swallow. You might even try tilting your head forward toward your chest when y Continue reading “What Makes the Medicine Go Down?”