to ask my GP for the more expensive version of my medication?

[crashdoll]

I have Rheumatoid Arthritis. I've been on prescription strength painkillers for almost 2 years. I struggle to swallow caplets and they were happy to prescribe the coated ones (capsules). A few weeks ago, they changed me over to the caplets and I've struggled along but gag and can't get them down even broken up. Plus, they leave the vilest taste in my mouth. I saw my GP (routine appt) and asked for the capsules. She told me they're too expensive. Now, I know the poor NHS is really overstretched but I can't function without my painkillers and I have perservered for a few weeks with the caplets.

I want to go back and speak to another GP and assertively ask for the capsules, AIBU?

Don't crush them unless it specifically says you can! It effects the way medication works YY!

I always chew a bit of bread til I am just about to swallow it - put the capsule as far back as I can and swallow, I also have a drink ready.

Ask him to give you a private prescription and pay for it yourself.

I had a really hard time swallowing tablets and the school nurse advised to raise both arms straight up above your head (Mexican wave style) and swallow. I don't know why but it helped me!

Please don't wait two weeks for your pain clinic, you need to go on Monday or Tuesday. I work for the NHS and have contact with lots of patients are happy to demand far more from the service than you, for far more spurious reasons.

What's the difference in cost. I bet it is under £100. Honestly, the things I hear. I can't say, as I would be bringing the service into disrepute or something, but I am at the way some peopleare bleeding our precious NHS dry. OP, you are not one of them. Go and get the right medications for you soon.

I agree with ghouliegussets, this is a very minor cost. YANBU.

something that sounds counter intuitive but works because it opens the space at the back of your mouth is to put your chin down towards your chest just before your swallow, it actually forces the tablets down easier.

If you've tried every method going and you can't swallow them YANBU, wonder if you can take 2 smaller tablets rather than one larger one. Def speak to your consultant though as well.

I have this problem and get soluble tablets where possible.

If you are receiving co-codomol, you can definitely get these as solubles.