Can you open Amoxicillin capsules?

Can you open Amoxicillin capsules?

You can open Amoxicillin capsules and mix the medication with semi-liquid foods to make it easier to consume. However, you should seek advice from your healthcare provider before you start doing so. 

There is a reason why Amoxicillin capsules are manufactured and the main purpose is to mask the extremely unpleasant taste of the drug (1). 

The capsule protects the powder from coming in contact with your taste buds and it dissolves once inside your stomach. When you open the capsule, no matter what you mix the powder into, you will still feel that bitter taste of the antibiotic (1). 

Potential risks of opening Amoxicillin capsules

Opening Amoxicillin capsules can pose several potential risks. The capsules are designed to release the medication slowly in your body, ensuring effective treatment (1). 

If you open the capsules and take the powder inside, it may lead to uneven distribution of the drug, causing inconsistent dosing. 

Additionally, exposing the powder to air and moisture can lead to the degradation of the medication, reducing its potency and effectiveness (1,2). The altered drug may not adequately combat the bacterial infection, increasing the risk of treatment failure.

Furthermore, opening the capsules can increase the likelihood of accidental ingestion of the powder, especially by children or pets. Amoxicillin can cause adverse effects when taken in inappropriate amounts, and accidental ingestion may result in harmful outcomes (2).

To ensure the proper and safe use of Amoxicillin, always take the medication as prescribed by your healthcare provider. 

Alternatives to opening Amoxicillin capsules

If you’re afraid to swallow Amoxicillin capsules, there are alternative ways to take the medication without opening the capsules:

  • Liquid suspension: Ask your healthcare provider for an Amoxicillin liquid suspension. It comes in a form that is easier to swallow, especially for children or those with difficulty swallowing pills (3).
  • Mix with food: As stated earlier, you can sprinkle the contents of the capsule into a small amount of soft food, like applesauce or yoghurt, and swallow it without chewing. Make sure to take the entire mixture to get the full dose. The presence of food can also prevent gastrointestinal side effects.
  • Compounded medication: Ask your pharmacist if they can create a customized compounded version of Amoxicillin that is easier for you to take, such as a flavoured liquid or chewable tablet.
  • Practice swallowing: If you’re struggling with swallowing capsules, try practising with small candies or mini marshmallows to get more comfortable before taking the medication.

Always remember to consult your healthcare provider before using any alternative method to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your specific situation. 

Was this helpful?

Thanks for your feedback!

References

1.-

LABEL: AMOXICILLIN capsule. DailyMed [Internet]. Available from: https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/getFile.cfm?setid=843f6053-63d9-47d2-81f1-b6aa78a7c20c&type=pdf

2.-

Akhavan BJ, Khanna NR, Vijhani P. Amoxicillin. 2022 Aug 8. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 29489203. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482250

3.-

LABEL: AMOXICILLIN powder, for suspension. DailyMed [Internet]. Available from: https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/getFile.cfm?setid=b18eca1d-0133-4266-829b-9a0bd925c4f2&type=pdf