... applesauce for easier swallowing?
Clindamycin - Is it safe to open clindomycin hcl capsules so the medicine can be combined with?
Question posted by tschroeder on 28 Dec 2009
Last updated on 1 November 2019 by A_Bain1987
6 Answers
A_Bain1987
1 Nov 2019
I would say, yes. And here’s why...
Clindamycin was prescribed to me at the ER after being diagnosed with a jaw break before I ever a surgeon (I’ll come back to this later). From what I understand it is an antibiotic that fights bacterial infections forming from wounds in the mouth (in my case) and renders bacteria that could become a problem powerless at its source. There are at least two different dosage sizes of the pill. Mine is a lower dosage of 150 Mgs, and I am directed to take 3 every six hours. Something like 60 pills, I can’t exactly remember, my apologies.
Now, as I said, I was prescribed the capsule before I had seen my surgeon. So, when my surgeon told me he would be “wiring my jaw closed for a month” I immediately asked about the capsule. How was I to take a capsule with my jaw wired shut? He was very nice and simply said “open it up and pour them in some apple juice”. Didn’t seem at all like a problem to him. I followed his orders.
Let me just tell you that the powder inside those capsules is EXTREMELY bitter. I couldn’t take 3 of them at a time in anything but apple juice. They leave a very bad taste in the mouth of someone with a wired shut jaw. Also, I’m not entirely sure if it was because I was having to constantly take clindamycin frequently along with acetaminophen or ibuprofen and occasionally along side oxycodone that did this or if it was just the un capsuled (non time released) granulated antibiotic powder itself but, after I would take it in apple juice I did feel a bit woozy for a short period of time. Just be aware of that.
I’m just saying for those who are wondering, in MY CASE the surgeon and the post op nurses knew that my jaw was wired and knew exactly what my antibiotic prescription was and no one ever hindered me from ingesting clindamycin in this way. I hope this helps!
halfpint2236
19 March 2019
I was told by my pharmacist not to open the capsule. since I have to swallow the pill with a full glass of water, I substitute the cold water with hot tea or chocolate. this softens the capsule and even if it does get stuck, it doesn't stay stuck long. the capsule is very soft. sometimes, I'll take it with hot chocolate to coat the stomach. seems to help
missy2
29 Dec 2009
i opened the capsules for my son and mix it in applesauce , peanutbutter or yogurt until he was old enough to swallow the capsule, and when taking care of my elderly father i had to crush or open all of his meds because he'd had a stroke and it was the only way to get him to take his meds. missy2
Tigerette
4 Nov 2018
And did he have any reactions when open the capsule? My pharmacist said I can open it ( clindamycin) on a spoon with water,
barbles2413
28 Dec 2009
Medication Guide: Theophylline
Dec 14, 2008 ... Theo-Dur (extended-release capsule that may be opened and sprinkled on food) ... These drugs can be given orally, although absorption may be slow and ... Erythromycin, ciprofloxacin/enrofloxacin, clindamycin, and other ...
http://ratguide.com/meds/respiratory_drugs/theophylline.php - 8k
Hope this helps Good luck
mitjason
28 Dec 2009
It's can be done but it's not recommended because Clindamycin irritates the lining of the stomach and intestines and cause an upset stomach (that's why it has the capsule.) They do have a liquid form called Cleocin which may help if you or the person you're prescribing the medication to has a hard time swallowing pills. Hope this helps. Happy Hoildays.
itsmetoo2
28 Dec 2009
No!!! do not open the capsule...
Clindamycin (oral / injection) "Clindamycin is an antibiotic used to treat infections caused by bacteria.
•Swallow clindamycin capsules whole (not crushed or chewed), with plenty of water.
•Even if your condition has improved it is important to complete the prescribed course of clindamycin.
•Oral contraceptives may be less effective while you are taking clindamycin and unplanned pregnancies are possible.
•The most common side effects are itching, skin rashes and being or feeling sick. If you suffer from diarrhoea during treatment with clindamycin, it is best to inform your doctor straight away."
If they can not take the capsule then there is an injectable ... Use that.
Tigerette
4 Nov 2018
I’m on clindamycin now I had a problem where it got stuck couldn’t bring it up, so I called my pharmacist asked them I was told you can open the capsule on spoon with water.
Related topics
Further information
- Clindamycin uses and safety info
- Clindamycin prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Clindamycin (detailed)
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