Can amoxicillin tablets be crushed

[bloodywhitecat]

Or do I need to get the GP to prescribe it in liquid form? I have just had to chuck DH's tablet for tonight out as he cannot swallow it.

I think they can be absorbed too quickly if you crush them.

The label or leaflet may say something on it like swallow whole or do not crush, some that can't be crushed say that.
But no, I wouldn't without checking first. I'm by no means an expert but I have done an administration of medication certificate and it's a no unless it's directed by a prescriber or pharmacist that it is safe to crush.

@SweetFelicityArkright

The label or leaflet may say something on it like swallow whole or do not crush, some that can't be crushed say that. But no, I wouldn't without checking first. I'm by no means an expert but I have done an administration of medication certificate and it's a no unless it's directed by a prescriber or pharmacist that it is safe to crush.

Bugger, you are right, the leaflet does say to swallow whole. I will call the pharmacy in the morning and if necessary, call 111 to get him some in liquid form. Thank you both.

You'll need another prescription. The pharmacy can't give you the liquid without one.
PS the liquid amoxicillin taste horrible too!!

Is it tablets you have? Amoxicillin is commonly prescribed in capsules, I don't think I have ever seen it in tablet form. If capsules you should be able to open the capsule and take the contents without the outer capsule.

@DeathMetalMum

Is it tablets you have? Amoxicillin is commonly prescribed in capsules, I don't think I have ever seen it in tablet form. If capsules you should be able to open the capsule and take the contents without the outer capsule.

You're right, it is co-amoxiclav not amoxicillin

Does your husband have a problem with swallowing generally? Co amoxiclav are huge ..you can break up the tablet if swallowing is a problem. Also you can get the suspension.

@Lovemydoggie

Does your husband have a problem with swallowing generally? Co amoxiclav are huge ..you can break up the tablet if swallowing is a problem. Also you can get the suspension.

He didn't used to have but he recently had a stroke which has left him quite severely disabled, he also has terminal cancer and is reaching end of life (which is why I don't know my arse from my elbow at the moment and didn't get the name of the antibiotic right, I haven't slept more than 4-5 hours for weeks and am holding out for a Marie Curie night sit tomorrow night).

I have been breaking them in half but he struggles even with that and can't communicate why as he has no speech.

I’ve cut the capsule and put in in water.

Never done me any harm.

Put the tablet in a tsp of yoghurt rather than water, helps to coat it and slip down

Get back on to who prescribed or onto 111 and get it changed to suspension. (If you haven't managed to already) I'd also request for a note to be added to records to ensure anything in the future is given either liquid or dispersible.

@BluebellsGreenbells

I’ve cut the capsule and put in in water.

Never done me any harm.

How do you know it's never done you any harm?

I'm sorry for your situation OP, have you managed to get in touch with 111 and get an alternative to the tablets or some advice?

💐

@DeathMetalMum

Is it tablets you have? Amoxicillin is commonly prescribed in capsules, I don't think I have ever seen it in tablet form. If capsules you should be able to open the capsule and take the contents without the outer capsule.

Tried that when I was having difficulty swallowing the tablets. Do not recommend.

It was so revolting that I was gagging before I'd even got it in my mouth. Next time I'm swallowing my pride and asking for liquid.