Question:
Can RNY patients swallow capsule pills after 4 months?

   — Char B. (posted on March 22, 2001)

March 22, 2001
My dr had me taking capsul type pills already in the hospital....actigall (to avoide gallbladder problems) I've also seen that many other people have taken this, so I would say you're safe to take capsuls at 4 months. The largest one I take is my multivitamin, which seems huge, but neither my PCP or surgeon seem concerned about its size.
   — tlg6056

March 22, 2001
My doctor told me to swallow all meds & pills at my 3 month follow-up. One problem with me is that when I tried to swallow them whole, I gagged. Nothing that big (without being crushed or chewed to death) had been that way in a long time. By now (7 months) I have no problem swallowing any kinds of pills.
   — Jeannet

March 22, 2001
My understanding was crushed or emptied out capsules put in yogurt or another substance are best for RNY patients because the stomach doesn't always disolve or break down what it needs to.. some capsule are known to swell too instead of breaking down... talk w/ your Dr/Surgeon and a nutritionist for sure. Many people have been tested when taking vitamins etc whole and have been found to be dificient... just something to be wary of. I think I'm gonna crush or break them up into smaller pieces when I can. Also note.. time released medication shouldn't be crushed or broken up at all.
   — [Anonymous]

March 22, 2001
My surgeon has been specializing in laparascopic RNY and VBG since 1994. His patients resume previous tablet and capsule medications when they return home from the hospital...usually 3 days post-op. I never experienced any problems. Good luck!
   — Diana T.