Nearly one-half of all Americans take at least one prescription medication daily. Many of these individuals are elderly who may experience difficulty when swallowing their daily medication. In fact, hard-to-take medications are one of the most common reasons why individuals do not comply with their medication routine.

Taking medication should not be such an uncomfortable experience that it prevents someone for maintaining their health. Therefore, if you have trouble taking your medications, follow these simple strategies.

1. Always take your medication with liquid, particularly, water. It helps if you take one sip of water first to coat your throat and then take another sip in order to swallow your pill.
2. Take one pill at a time, even if you have multiple pills to take a day. It may mean a bit more time to complete your medication routine, but the extra minute is worth it.
3. Inquire about an alternate form. Talk to your pharmacist about a liquid or gel cap, which are much easier to take than just a pill. Some pills have a special coating that makes swallowing them much easier. Ask your pharmacist if your medication comes in an easy-to-swallow tablet. Usually these kinds of pills are covered in a special coating that makes swallowing easier.
4. Breath deep: Pause before you pop your pill and take a full inhale and exhale to relax you.

Following these easy tips will help you maintain your compliance with your medication routine. If you continue to experience trouble swallowing your medication, contact your doctor or pharmacist to devise alternative solutions for your health.