Soft capsules, also known as softgels, are one type of capsule, as the name implies, filled with medicine in liquid form. Basically, any type of vitamin, supplement, over-the-counter drug, or medication prescribed by a doctor can be packaged in soft capsules. In particular, soft capsules are quite a popular type of drug to take, mainly because their non-hard texture makes soft capsules easier to swallow than regular pills or capsules. However, before consuming it, make sure you first read the instructions for use along with the recommended dosage. After that, please immediately swallow the capsule with the help of a little water!
Step
Part 1 of 2: Determining the Soft Capsule Dose
Step 1. Read the recommended dosage on the capsule packaging
Generally, the dosage of capsules depends on the age and symptoms of the person taking them, and the packaging of the capsules you buy should include detailed information. Remember, each type of medicine has different instructions.
- Generally, adults and children 12 years of age or older should take 2 soft capsules with water every 4 hours.
- Reading the recommended dosage is especially important if the capsules are intended to be taken only during the day or at night. Of course you don't want to start the day feeling drowsy as a result of accidentally taking capsules that should be taken before bed, right?
Step 2. Explain the capsule dosage to your doctor or pharmacist
Even if the capsules are purchased over-the-counter at the pharmacy, the pharmacist should still include dosing instructions on the capsule packaging. If not, please ask your pharmacist or doctor for clarification regarding the capsule dosage and frequency of consumption.
Step 3. Do not take soft capsules beyond the recommended dosage
Since the soft capsule is filled with liquid, of course the dose cannot be divided. That's why, capsules should be taken according to the dosage instructed! If the capsule is consumed in excess of the dose, it is feared that various negative side effects, such as overdose, will occur, although the accurate side effects depend on the type of drug contained in the capsule. Meanwhile, if the capsules are consumed in smaller quantities than the recommended dose, it is likely that their performance will be ineffective.
Part 2 of 2: Swallow Soft Capsules
Step 1. Take capsules with or without food, depending on the instructions on the package
Most capsules are recommended to be taken with food, although there are no clear rules regarding the correct method. If the instructions on the package ask you to take the capsules with or after a meal, don't hesitate to follow them. However, if there is no such instruction, please take the capsules with plain water as usual.
Step 2. Take the required number of soft capsules from the container
Twist or press the cap of the capsule container open, then take the required number of soft capsules, usually about 1-2 capsules per drink.
Step 3. Place the soft capsule over your tongue
Basically, soft capsules are designed to be easy to dissolve and swallow, although the size of each brand is different. Therefore, the capsules can be taken individually or all at once, depending on your comfort level.
Step 4. Sip some water while the soft capsule is still in your mouth
If the throat area feels dry, you can also drink a little water before taking the soft capsules.
Step 5. Swallow the capsule and water at the same time
Do this to make it easier for the capsule to slide down your throat.
Most instructions ask you to swallow the soft capsule with the help of water to make it easier to digest. If desired, the capsules can even be taken with fruit juice, unless otherwise recommended on the packaging or by a doctor
Step 6. Swallow the capsule whole
Instead of mashing, chewing, or dissolving soft capsules, try swallowing them whole, unless otherwise recommended by your doctor. Remember, the soft capsule is filled with fluid and the outer layer is designed to dissolve in the stomach or small intestine!
If the soft capsule which is a slow-release preparation is crushed, chewed, or dissolved, it is feared that the substances contained in it will not be able to be absorbed properly by your body
Tips
Basically, soft capsules are designed to be easy to swallow. Therefore, if you have been having trouble taking medication in the form of pills, try opening yourself up to soft capsules. Believe me, swallowing soft capsules is not difficult at all, really
Warning
- If the capsules are taken as a medicine instead of a supplement, and if your medical symptoms persist for more than 7 days, contact your doctor immediately! Most likely, your body needs a prescription medication or other more effective treatment method.
- Soft capsules have a shorter shelf life than most pills or capsules. Therefore, don't forget to check the expiration date of the capsules before consuming them!
