Many individuals face challenges when swallowing whole tablets or capsules and often crush them or open the shells to make ingestion simpler. This common habit, however, carries potential hazards that can affect how medications work in the body. A clinical pharmacist named Anum recently highlighted these concerns in a popular TikTok video, stressing that not every pill is safe to alter in this way. Her message serves as an important reminder for anyone who modifies their medicines without professional guidance.
Anum begins by pointing out a key fact that surprises many people. “Did you know that crushing tablets or opening capsules to take just the powder can be dangerous?” she asks in the video. She explains that certain formulations are specifically engineered not to be broken apart. “Not all tablets are intended for crushing, just as not all capsules should be opened,” she adds, urging viewers to pay closer attention to how their medications are designed.
One major issue involves tablets made for extended release. These medications deliver the active ingredient slowly over several hours to maintain steady effects and minimize side effects. When crushed, the entire dose enters the system at once, which disrupts this careful timing. “Some tablets have extended release. If you crush such tablets or open capsules, you can ruin the way the medication is released. This means it may not work as long as it should, and the risk of side effects increases,” Anum warns.
Another type features a special gastric-resistant coating. This layer shields both the stomach lining from irritation and the drug from being destroyed by stomach acid too early. Damaging the coating defeats its purpose and can lead to reduced effectiveness or discomfort. “Others have gastric-resistant coating. It protects your stomach from the medication, but also the medication from stomach acid. That’s why this coating should not be damaged,” she notes clearly.
Handling altered pills also poses direct risks during preparation. Some powders can cause skin irritation or other harm upon contact, especially if the medication is potent. “It’s also concerning that the powder of some tablets and capsules can irritate the skin and be harmful if you come into contact with it,” Anum states. This aspect makes casual crushing particularly unwise without proper precautions.
Questions about splitting tablets in half often arise as well. One viewer inquired whether this practice carries similar dangers. Anum replied that it requires caution too. “Good question! Some tablets are designed for splitting, and some are not, and it’s not always clear which is which,” she responded. She further advised, “If you split the wrong tablet in half, it can change the way the medication works. It’s best to consult a pharmacist before splitting any tablet.”
For those who regularly struggle with swallowing solid doses, Anum recommends seeking expert help instead of improvising. Pharmacists and doctors can suggest suitable alternatives, such as liquid versions or different formulations that dissolve easily. Resources like the Healthline portal also offer practical tips, including placing a tablet in soft foods like applesauce or pudding to aid swallowing. They stress, however, that any modification should first receive approval from a healthcare provider, particularly for drugs requiring an empty stomach.
@pharmacist.anum Crushing, cutting , opening capsules ect might seem like a simple fix if you are finding them difficult to take -but it can lead to some serious issues and can make medication less effective! If you are struggling with your medication always speak with your pharmacist or GP before altering the formulation of any of your medicines! For educational purposes only-NOT medical advice! #pharmacy #pharmacist #pharmacytiktok #medicine #fyp ♬ original sound – Pharmacist Anum
Extended-release formulations represent a common advancement in pharmaceutical design. They allow once-daily dosing for many conditions by providing controlled delivery of the active substance. This approach helps achieve consistent blood levels and improves patient adherence. Enteric-coated tablets, on the other hand, ensure that certain drugs bypass the stomach and release in the intestines, protecting sensitive compounds or reducing gastric side effects.
Capsules sometimes contain powders or pellets engineered for timed release as well. Opening them prematurely can lead to the same problems as crushing tablets. Pharmacists play a vital role in educating patients about these distinctions, often checking labels or manufacturer guidelines to confirm safety. Recognizing symbols or markings on pills, such as score lines for approved splitting, further helps avoid mistakes.
Overall, altering medication forms without guidance can unintentionally compromise treatment outcomes. Awareness of these built-in protections encourages safer habits and better communication with healthcare professionals. Many modern options now exist to address swallowing difficulties while preserving drug integrity. Consulting a pharmacist remains the simplest step toward personalized solutions.
Have you ever modified a tablet to make it easier to take, or do you know someone who has? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments.
