Small pills--post op

I am 4 days post op, and am on a clear liquid diet. My usual prescription meds include a small pill, smaller than an M&M, and a small capsule. Would it be safe to take these whole with a sip of water, or should they be opened and mixed with some clear liquid during this 1st week? The taste really awful when opened or crushed. Thanks.

I take three small pills a day. I never had to break or crush them. My doctor told me as long as they are smaller than a pencil eraser, you shouldn't have a problem. I have taken large extra strength tylenol caplets without any problem too. I think you will be OK if you take them whole. Gerry

You can safely take medications on a clear liquid diet - BUT Your stoma is likely still swollen, so liquid meds are always the safest at this stage. the general rule is that all meds should be smaller than an aspirin, as that is about the size of the stoma. But right after surgery, even this can be too big. Any meds you take, now or later, must always be washed completely through the pouch with a FULL glass of water. This is really imperative, becuase if they get stuck, or are unable to go through the stoma and sit there against it, they can and often do cause a lot of damage. If this happens later, people have needed an emergency unfill, or even an emergency endoscopy to physically remove the stuck glob of medication. Much easier to avoid! You can probably safely take that pill if you break it into 4 pieces, but the capsule might be too big (depends on your definition of "small"). Almost all medications can be made into a liquid, by your pharmacist. Sandy R. Kuri, at goal

Do not split, open, or crush any pill or capsule without checking with your pharmacist first! Some must remain in their enclosed form in order to work properly. Also, ask about liquid meds, if available, for a while. My MD said anything smaller than a pencil eraser is fine.

My very first PB was on two tylenol swallowed with a big gulp of water (old habits die hard!)... so go slowly, try one and see how it goes. I tend to drink a hot drink right after I take a pill to help melt it down quicker. I have not had any further issues and can take tylenols just fine. If you do break the pill be sure it isn't time released or anything because you may get too much at once. If in doubt, call your doc. Kiera Banded: 28 April 03 Operation "Fresh Start" 28 April 06 @ 240: only 17# until I will join the -100 club. What's Really Going On Here? (W.R.G.O.H.) http://www.obesityhelp.com/forums/LapBand/postdetail/338955.html?vc=0