Can't Swallow Tablets? Practical Help for Patients and Carers
Difficulty swallowing tablets is common — in older people, after a stroke, with dementia, and in children. Here is what to ask about and how crushing may help when it is suitable.
Speak to a pharmacist, doctor or speech and language therapist
Ongoing problems swallowing (dysphagia) should always be assessed by a healthcare professional. Never crush a tablet or change how a medicine is given without checking with a pharmacist first.
Common signs of swallowing difficulty
- Coughing or choking when taking tablets, food or drink
- Tablets sticking in the throat or being held in the mouth
- Refusing or spitting out medication
- Taking a long time to finish a dose
Alternatives to ask your pharmacist about
- A liquid or oral solution version of the medicine
- Dispersible, soluble or orodispersible tablets
- A patch, spray or other form where available
- Whether the tablet may be safely crushed or split
When crushing may be suitable
If a pharmacist confirms a tablet can be crushed, crush it in a sealed single-use pouch so the whole dose is kept together and nothing is lost or cross-contaminated. The Silent Knight crushes to a fine, even powder that is easier to mix into a teaspoon of soft food or thickened fluid.
Tips for carers
- Sit the person upright and stay with them until the dose is finished
- Give one medicine at a time
- Use a small amount of soft food or thickened fluid only as advised
- Offer a drink afterwards if it is safe for the person
- Record any refusal or difficulty and report it to the care team
This guide is general information and does not replace advice from a pharmacist, doctor or speech and language therapist.