Softgel or soft capsules are fast-acting gelatin tablets containing active ingredients in liquid form. They are used in the manufacture of vitamins, supplements, over-the-counter or prescription drugs. These capsules are a very popular pharmaceutical preparation mainly because they are easier to swallow than hard pills or tablets. When taking them, read the package insert and determine the correct dosage. Just take a sip of water to swallow the soft capsules!
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Determine Dosage
Step 1. Read the instructions on the package or package insert of the softgel capsules to find the right dosage
Based on age and symptoms, the dosage should be detailed. Each medicine has different indications depending on the type of belonging.
- In general, a typical dosage for adults and children over 12 years of age is to take two softgels with water every four hours.
- Reading the instructions is especially important when taking daytime or nighttime softgels. You certainly don't want to take a tablet for insomnia before you go to work!
Step 2. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to clarify the dosage
The prescription or package insert of over-the-counter medicines should detail the dosage of the drug. If you cannot find this information or if you need clarification, contact your doctor or the pharmacist who sold you the product. A professional will be able to clearly explain how many capsules to take and how often.
Step 3. Do not ingest more or fewer capsules than you are instructed
Since they have a liquid content, it is not possible to break down the soft capsules and modify their doses. These tablets should be taken whole and respecting the indicated dosage. Taking more than you should can lead to several side effects that vary depending on the drug, including an overdose. Taking less will prevent the active ingredients from doing their job.
Part 2 of 2: Swallow the Softgel Capsules
Step 1. Take the capsules on a full or empty stomach depending on the directions
In most cases, it is recommended to take them on a full stomach, although it can be uncomfortable to ingest them while eating. If the package insert indicates that you should take them on a full stomach, swallow them with or immediately after meals. Otherwise you can take them with plain water.
Step 2. Remove the right amount of capsules from the container
Remove the cap by twisting or lifting it and take the capsules. Usually one or two are taken at a time.
Step 3. Place the capsules in your mouth by placing them on your tongue
Softgel capsules are very easy to swallow and dissolve, although this feature can vary depending on the format. You can either take one tablet at a time or take the entire dose at once, whichever is most convenient for you.
Step 4. Sip some water after placing the capsule in your mouth
You can also sip some water before taking the tablet if you have a dry throat.
Step 5. Swallow the capsule and water at the same time
The water will help you slide it smoothly into the pharynx.
Most of the instructions instruct you to take the softgels with water to aid digestion. You can also take them with a fruit juice, unless the package insert says otherwise
Step 6. Swallow the softgel capsules whole
Instead of shredding, chewing, or melting them, swallow them with the coating intact, unless your doctor or pharmacist tells you to do otherwise. Softgel capsules contain liquid and the outer coating is designed to dissolve in the stomach or small intestine.
If you mince, chew or dissolve an extended-release softgel capsule, it will not be absorbed properly by the body
Advice
Due to their composition, softgel capsules are easy to swallow. If you usually have trouble swallowing pills, try these tablets with an open mind. You may find that getting them is easier than you thought
Warnings
- If you take softgel capsules for medical reasons (rather than as a supplement) and your symptoms persist for more than seven days, you should see your doctor. You may need a higher concentration or another treatment.
- Softgel capsules have a shorter shelf life than other pills or tablets, so check the expiration date.
