Question:
Any problems with the SIZE of these Actigall Capsules?

I'm 2 weeks post-op and my surgeon started me on Actigall. On the RX he wrote "tablet may be cut in 1/2" but when the RX was filled I got capsules (a generic brand) and not tablets. I asked the pharmacist and he said this is the only way they both come. These capsules are HUGE! They are 300mg and are about 3-4 times the size of my Prilosec 20mg capsules. I have to take the Actigall twice a day and I don't know if I'll be able to swallow them. I tried mixing the contents into some applesauce but I kept gagging trying to get it all down. Does anyone know if these capsules are supposed to be this HUGE? Any advice on how else I could take it? Does anyone else just swallow these whole?    — Angela W. (posted on January 22, 2002)

January 22, 2002
I've also been taking these since about 5 days out. I haven't had a problem swallowing them because of the material the capsul is made of. They just slide right down my throat and I've had no problems. I have a more difficult time with pills that are round or that do not have a slick coating. I've switch many of my meds to capsul form because I find they are easier to swallow. Good luck.
   — Kirstin99

January 22, 2002
I too have to take one pill twice a day. I just empty the contents into my protein shakes, and I never taste them.
   — Wendy H.

January 22, 2002
Angela, I was scared to death to take these capsules, but, once I took one, I knew it would be OK. I have been taking them whole for four months, no problems.
   — Marie A.

January 22, 2002
Mine too were just huge. I have had problems with my stoma closing up and dilations so I have not yet attempted to swallow them whole, knowing they would get stuck. At first I was opening them and dumping them in yogurt, then read that dairy cancels out the active ingredient. Dumped on applesauce in the hospital, so that was a no-go. Taking the powder straight was about the nastiest thing I have ever tasted. I finally gave up on them. That isn't what I am telling you to do, by no means. But I wanted to let you know that I too have had obstacles with the Actigall. I know I am probably risking some kind of gallbladder problems, but I will just have to risk it until I can swallow them whole. I am almost 11 weeks out and hope to be able to swallow pills soon. Good luck.
   — Cheri M.

January 22, 2002
I am going to agree with an earlier poster, the capsule material dissolves really quickly. Put one in a glass of water, you will see. My doc told me it would be no problem, and he was right. ANy real concerns, ask the doc.
   — M. A. B.

January 22, 2002
I too have been prescribed actigall, and when I saw the size of those pills I about had a heart attack. I am only one week post-op, but I have been taking them whole three times daily with no problem, and I take my zantac right after- still no trouble. God luck! Jen
   — smartchick

January 23, 2002
Thanks for all the responses to my question about the Actigall. Just wanted to update you all on how I did. I took my two doses yesterday. First in applesauce (YUCK) then swallowed whole. It went down fine with the water. BUT, I must add...I think it gave me a little diarrhea. I just read the possible side effects on the prescription information sheet I was given and thought I'd share with everyone. FYI...Number 1 is diarrhea. Also, severe stomach pains, nausea, vomiting. Stomach upset, loss of appetite, gas, headache, tiredness, trouble sleeping, dry or itchy skin, sweating, THINNING OF HAIR (UH OH), cough, runny nose, metal taste in the mouth, muscle pain, nervousness or depression. WOW! I wonder if it's not just better to have gallstones??? Kidding.
   — Angela W.