Can You Swallow Chewable Tablets?

Answer

Yes, the vast majority of chewable tablets can be swallowed intact with no problems. Chewable tablets are designed and manufactured to be broken up in the mouth, to aid people with swallowing problems or to increase palatability. When chewable tablets are swallowed whole, the acid in our stomach will dissolve them and they will be absorbed like usual.

Are There Chewable Tablets You Must Chew?

It is extremely rare for a chewable tablet that can not be swallowed whole, but there are examples. One such example is the prescription drug Fosrenol (lanthanum carbonate). After the drug was released, there were reports of serious GI obstruction and fecal impaction when chewable tablets were swallowed whole.

The above is a rare example, however. In most cases, you can feel safe swallowing chewable tablets whole if you desire. If you have a question about a specific product, consult your pharmacist or check the package labeling.

Are There Any Disadvantages To Swallowing Chewable Tablets?

Overall, there generally is no problem swallowing most chewable tablet products.

However, aside from some very specific product requirements (as mentioned above), there are some cases where chewable tablets are absorbed faster than swallowing (and not chewing) a solid dosage form, and thus, may work faster.

Essentially, a chewable tablet is already partially broken down from chewing and the digestive action of saliva, which makes it more quickly absorbed than an intact tablet when it reaches the stomach and gastrointestinal tract. This isn't overly significant though for most drugs, and may simply result in a chewed tablet working just slightly faster.

Final Words

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