Question:  Our 8-year-old son has to take a pill every day and is not able to do it consistently.  Do you have any stress-free suggestions on how to help a child swallow a pill whole?

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I would begin by calling the pharmacy to see if your child's medication comes in liquid or chewable form, which would be easier to take.  While you have them on the phone, ask if this particular medication can be broken into smaller pieces or crushed.  It is best to check first because if the pill is crushed or broken, it may affect the release and absorption rate of the medication.  If you can crush it, try adding it to peanut butter, yogurt, ice cream (yum!), applesauce, and the like.

If your pharmacist tells you that the pill must be swallowed whole, plan B is to teach your child how to swallow the pill.  First explain to him why he needs to take the medication.  If he understands the benefits, he may be more willing to swallow the pill.  For example, will it take away pain or cure an infection?  Will it help him be able to pay attention better?  And so forth.

Have him take a deep breath first, then drink some water to lubricate the tongue and throat.  Then have him stick his tongue out far enough so that you can place the pill as far back on the tongue as possible (without triggering a gag reflex).  Tell him to drink and swallow.  It may help to use juice or another flavored drink to make the process more pleasant.  And although water or juice are the best options, it may help to use a carbonated drink so that the bubbles mask the pill.  

Remember to praise, praise, praise.  Some parents offer their children a prize, but since this is a daily medication routine, that could get costly and difficult to reinforce.  It may also help to consult with his pediatrician.  I hope these tips help.  Best of luck! 

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Debbie

Debra C. Lowsky, MS, CCC-SLP

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