Question:
How do I take OTC drugs?

I am just under 4 weeks post op and am trying to figure out how to take any form of pills. The only thing that I am taking currently is chewable vitamins. I'm just unsure if I should take a tylenol with food or without. If I'm supose to take it with food, how am i supose to without water? If without food, wouldn't it get washed through too quickly to absorb? Any help would be greatly appreciated!!!    — Judy M. (posted on October 19, 2003)

October 19, 2003
First, check with your surgeon's office before taking any medication. Of course, Tylenol is ok but he might want you to take the liquid. I had to take some medication with food and the small amount of water needed wasn't a problem. I started taking capsules at 8 days post-op (prescription from my surgeon). When I was about a month out, I had a bad sinus infection and bronchitis and had to take antibiotics - no problem at all.
   — Patty_Butler

October 19, 2003
When possible you may want to try buying a capsul - but breaking it up and mixing it in yogurt, applesauce or something that goes down e-z.
   — Emily H.

October 19, 2003
I never take any pills on empty. Makes me uncomfy. If you take a few bites of food, you can sip enough water to take your pills. It's not quite the same thing as washing it down with several oz. Can you swallow one with an oz, for example? 2 swallows
   — vitalady

October 20, 2003
You can take the childrens liquid Tylenol. Just ask your pharmacist for the correct dosage.
   — CAMFR