ome people just can’t seem to swallow pills. If you can’t, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about helpful alternatives. For example, maybe your medicine can be prescribed in a different form such as a capsule, caplet, patch, liquid or suppository. Some pills you already have can be crushed or split into smaller pieces. Just be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist whether this is appropriate for your pills. Don’t crush or split time-release pills, for example. The ingredients in them are intended to enter your system gradually. If you crush or split the pills, the drug is absorbed all at once and can cause an overdose. Also, crushing or splitting coated pills can result in irritation of the mouth, throat and stomach. Other pill-downing tricks: Take a few deep breaths to help you relax before you attempt to take your medicine. Try swallowing pills with food such as applesauce as you eat a meal. That way you aren’t as focused on the taste, shape, size or feel of the medicine. Drink some liquid before you take the pill. A dry throat may make you more likely to gag. Don’t tilt your head back. This method stretches your esophagus and makes swallowing more difficult. © Your HealthStyle, 1999.