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Author Topic: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......  (Read 21085 times)

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Offline Queen Tokelove

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Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« on: November 28, 2007, 04:06:20 pm »
I am a bit concerned about my Atripla pill. When I first started it, I had a time swallowing it because it is so damn big. My ID doc said that I could cut it in half which what I have been doing. But lately, it seems like I can only get down half the pill. Well I shouldn't say lately as in it happens everyday but it has actually happened about 3 times since I started taking it. I am worried about resistance....Suggestions? Should I call my doc on this or just wait for the next blood draw and see what that reveals?
Started Atripla/Ziagen on 9/13/07.
10/31/07 CD4-265 VL- undetectable
2/6/08 CD4- 401 VL- undetectable
5/7/08 CD4- 705 VL- undetectable
6/4/08 CD4- 775 VL- undetectable
8/6/08 CD4- 805 VL- undetectable
11/13/08 CD4- 774 VL--undetectable
2/4/09  CD4- 484  VL- 18,000 (2 months off meds)
3/3/09---Starting Back on Meds---
4/27/09 CD4- 664 VL-- undetectable
6/17/09 CD4- 438 VL- 439
8/09 CD4- 404 VL- 1,600
01-22-10-- CD4- 525 VL- 59,000
Cherish the simple things life has to offer

Offline Miss Philicia

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #1 on: November 28, 2007, 04:16:41 pm »
I'm confused.  When he says cut it in half he still means that you take both of the halves, you just have to do two separate swallows.  Are you saying that you're only accomplishing one swallow, thus only one half? 

As long as you're actually taking both halves there is no resistance issue.  You need to learn to swallow... what are you going to do down the road if you need to pop 10 pills in the morning?
"I’ve slept with enough men to know that I’m not gay"

Offline newt

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #2 on: November 28, 2007, 04:24:00 pm »
Cut it in half...he said that...

It's not really designed to be broken, and may result in crumbling, loss of drugs etc, a fair and real concern, the proof is in the VL test, but that may be deceptive in the short term and yes, resistance-because-of-underdosing is a reasonable worry (more the nukes than the Sustiva bit prob). But then again not, it's hard to tell if you NEED 100% of the dose to stay undetectable.

But proper prescribing wise, it's not designed to be broken.

Sustiva, the NNRTI part of Atripla, comes in small caps from 50mg up to the whole single 600mg dose in 1 tab, it may mean more actual tabs but its the same meds, they are all smaller.

Truvada, the other part of Atripla, is a relatively medium size pill and shaped to swallow.

Swallowing pills is a technique that can be learned too, and there are tricks eg spoonful of yoghurt etc.

Atripla = horse pill good description.

- matt
"The object is to be a well patient, not a good patient"

Offline David_CA

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #3 on: November 28, 2007, 04:45:05 pm »
I've not had any problems swallowing Atripla.  Hell, I could probably throw three of 'em in my mouth and swallow them with no water pretty easily.  I bet I'm also a fair amount bigger and therefore have bigger throat parts.  Plus, some of 'us' have been dealing with big things down our throats so long that it just comes naturally!   :D 

Seriously, when I was a kid, I had to take a lot of pills for my allergies.  I found that taking a drink first, holding it, popping the pill, swallowing, and then quickly chasing it with another sip seemed to work.  I think my dad (a pediatrician) taught me that.  It's sort of like floating the pill down.  If I've had anything that could induce cottonmouth, sometimes pills are more difficult to take.  I also found that a drink like sweet tea (probably a no-no for you) worked better than water.  Good luck with it, as Atripla seems to work well for those of us who can handle it.  It's also one co-pay, at least for me, which is certainly a good thing.

David
Black Friday 03-03-2006
03-23-06 CD4 359 @27.4% VL 75,938
06-01-06 CD4 462 @24.3% VL > 100,000
08-15-06 CD4 388 @22.8% VL >  "
10-21-06 CD4 285 @21.9% VL >  "
  Atripla started 12-01-2006
01-08-07 CD4 429 @26.8% VL 1872!
05-08-07 CD4 478 @28.1% VL 740
08-03-07 CD4 509 @31.8% VL 370
11-06-07 CD4 570 @30.0% VL 140
02-21-08 CD4 648 @32.4% VL 600
05-19-08 CD4 695 @33.1% VL < 48 undetectable!
08-21-08 CD4 725 @34.5%
11-11-08 CD4 672 @39.5%
02-11-09 CD4 773 @36.8%
05-11-09 CD4 615 @36.2%
08-19-09 CD4 770 @38.5%
11-19-09 CD4 944 @33.7%
02-17-10 CD4 678 @39.9%  
06-03-10 CD4 768 @34.9%
09-21-10 CD4 685 @40.3%
01-10-11 CD4 908 @36.3%
05-23-11 CD4 846 @36.8% VL 80
02-13-12 CD4 911 @41.4% VL<20
You must be the change you want to see in the world.  Mahatma Gandhi

Offline Queen Tokelove

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #4 on: November 28, 2007, 05:40:55 pm »
I am already resistant to one of the meds in Atripla which is why I am also taking Ziagen. Not sure if mentioned that but it is in my sig line. Yes, Philly, I can get one half down but not the other. This is like the 3rd time it has happened. I dunno about 10 pills at one time but I take 5 when I get up. They are not big thus not a problem. Uh, David, I have issues with getting other things in my mouth too... ;D What can I say? I have a small mouth... ;)
Started Atripla/Ziagen on 9/13/07.
10/31/07 CD4-265 VL- undetectable
2/6/08 CD4- 401 VL- undetectable
5/7/08 CD4- 705 VL- undetectable
6/4/08 CD4- 775 VL- undetectable
8/6/08 CD4- 805 VL- undetectable
11/13/08 CD4- 774 VL--undetectable
2/4/09  CD4- 484  VL- 18,000 (2 months off meds)
3/3/09---Starting Back on Meds---
4/27/09 CD4- 664 VL-- undetectable
6/17/09 CD4- 438 VL- 439
8/09 CD4- 404 VL- 1,600
01-22-10-- CD4- 525 VL- 59,000
Cherish the simple things life has to offer

Offline Lisa

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #5 on: November 28, 2007, 05:54:46 pm »
As Newt says, you won't get optimal benefit from chopping the pill.
I have found that immersing your pill in a yummie thick substance is helpful. Have you tried pudding? milkshake? mashed potatoes,yoghurt,grits, or tossed into a bowl of cereal?
Have a nice tall glass of water or(substitute substance of your choice).....Whiskey sour, grilled cheese sammie, egg salad sandwich...etc.
Any favorable substance will do. The hardest part is getting past your thought process.
Wishing you well sister.
No Fear  No Shame  No Stigma
Happiness is not getting what you want, but wanting what you have.

Offline pozattitude

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    • to find out more about me....
Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #6 on: November 28, 2007, 06:21:10 pm »
  Plus, some of 'us' have been dealing with big things down our throats so long that it just comes naturally!   :D 


David


I was waiting for that response..... ;)

rich
(who has not problems swallowing either)
POSITIVE PEDALERS... We are a group of people living with HIV/AIDS, eliminating stigma through our positive public example.

Offline lucas clay

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #7 on: November 28, 2007, 06:27:23 pm »
  Plus, some of 'us' have been dealing with big things down our throats so long that it just comes naturally!   :D 

Is there a program that makes statements like this invisible before you can read them. lmao

i have a bad gag reflex and have to position the pill just right and it goes down (No water), then a drink. you will have to find the trick that works for you.

                                                                Lucas

Offline Joe K

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #8 on: November 28, 2007, 06:46:06 pm »
What I find that works very well for big pills or even handfuls is to put the pill in your mouth and tilt your head back so the pill is at the back of your throat, then take a decent sip of water and then as you lower your head down, swallow, because your throat is the most open with your head horizontal and not tilted vertically.  Hope this helps.

Offline leatherman

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #9 on: November 28, 2007, 06:55:41 pm »
Have you tried pudding? milkshake? mashed potatoes,yoghurt,grits,

you left out the best one - GRAVY!

it makes my Norvir slide right down, and keeps away the wasting syndrome at the same time. LOL

On a serious note though, try to figure out the trick that'll work. Yrs. ago I had serious mental/psychological issues about swallowing my meds because they were making me barf so much. It got so bad that just touching my meds was enough to trigger a run to the bathroom. Eventually it led to non-compliant and a really high viral load.  :( Although I got back on track with the meds, there are still days that I'll shiver swallowing my meds;  but I've usually coated them in enough food to disguise them past my tongue. Now I only puke when the meds make me puke, not because I'm freaking out on the meds.
leatherman (aka Michael)

We were standing all alone
You were leaning in to speak to me
Acting like a mover shaker
Dancing to Madonna then you kissed me
And I think about it all the time
- Darren Hayes, "Chained to You"

Offline mjmel

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #10 on: November 28, 2007, 07:04:03 pm »
Some mornings I just look at 'em and have a gag reflex. I swallow what I can stand before a gag then I take 10 mins break/pause--then swallowing the rest. The mental pause works for me. If there's lots of particles from halving your pills be sure to get 'em in you, as well.
Hope you find your method and it all works out nicely for you.

Mike

Offline J.R.E.

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  • Positive since 1985, joined forums 12/03
Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #11 on: November 28, 2007, 07:15:11 pm »
Hello Queen,

I also agree with Matt, that there is certainly a technique, for swallowing some pills. And some can have problems getting them down without gagging. your not alone there ! Some may never be able to swallow pills correctly.

I also don't believe it a wise thing to cut that pill in half.

Some of the Fish-oil capsules I take are larger than any capsules/pills that I've ever seen. On some occasions ( but very seldom) I may have to try 2 times to get those ones down.

The way I do it..... Put the pill, almost to the back of the tongue, length wise with the tongue, and centered. Don't put it so far back, that it will make you gag, before you have a chance to swallow it.

Tilt your head slightly back,( as Joe also suggested) and have the water ready, take one fast swallow. Do this while standing. Also just like Joe suggested, do not tilt you head left or right, Look straight ahead, with your chin up slightly.

Everyone has different techniques, for doing this, you may want to practice with some larger fish oil pills, in the beginning.

I know this is all easier said than done, so it's going to take some practice. other solution, breaking that pill down to it's other components, which may make it easier to take.


Good luck-------Ray

Current Meds ; Viramune / Epzicom Eliquis, Diltiazem. Pravastatin 80mg, Ezetimibe. UPDATED 2/18/24
 Tested positive in 1985,.. In October of 2003, My t-cell count was 16, Viral load was over 500,000, Percentage at that time was 5%. I started on  HAART on October 24th, 2003.

 As of Oct 2nd, 2023, Viral load Undetectable.
CD 4 @676 /  CD4 % @ 18 %
Lymphocytes,absolute-3815 (within range)


72 YEARS YOUNG

Offline J.R.E.

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  • Positive since 1985, joined forums 12/03
Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #12 on: November 28, 2007, 07:48:17 pm »
PS,


Her's something to think about :


http://www.oralflo.com/

Looks like a pretty interesting concept.. Says it takes all size pills. Maybe check at one of the pharmacies, and see if they carry this type of item.



Ray
Current Meds ; Viramune / Epzicom Eliquis, Diltiazem. Pravastatin 80mg, Ezetimibe. UPDATED 2/18/24
 Tested positive in 1985,.. In October of 2003, My t-cell count was 16, Viral load was over 500,000, Percentage at that time was 5%. I started on  HAART on October 24th, 2003.

 As of Oct 2nd, 2023, Viral load Undetectable.
CD 4 @676 /  CD4 % @ 18 %
Lymphocytes,absolute-3815 (within range)


72 YEARS YOUNG

Offline sharkdiver

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #13 on: November 28, 2007, 09:08:59 pm »
Your Highness,

being a speech language pathologist, one of the areas I deal with is swallowing. If you would like some tips to help you PM.

yours
Sharky

Offline aztecan

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #14 on: November 28, 2007, 11:23:24 pm »
Hey Akasha,

OK, I am going to say this, even though it does sound sexist. Why is it women have such a terrible time swallowing things?

ALL of the women I know have trouble swallowing pills. They go through all kinds of contorsions, make all kinds of faces, gag, choke, etc.

Most of the men I know don't seem to have this problem, gay or straight. I just wonder if there isn't something physically different about a women's esophagus?

At any rate, I think Newt  hit it on the head regarding cutting the pill in half. Honey, if you can't swallow both halves, you are hurting yourself.

If the Atripla pill is too much for you, I would go with the suggestion to break down the pill into multiple pills, i.e. Sustiva and Truvada. They are smaller and may give you less of a problem.

Find a trick that works for you, but whatever you do, make sure you get the full dosage, not just half.

I take 14 pills each morning, including four fish oil capsules and one Norvir. I take them all at once as a handful.

Works for me, but then again, I am considered something of an expert at swallowing big things.  ::)

BIG HUGS,

Mark
"May your life preach more loudly than your lips."
~ William Ellery Channing (Unitarian Minister)

Offline David_CA

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #15 on: November 29, 2007, 12:52:29 am »
Works for me, but then again, I am considered something of an expert at swallowing big things.  ::)

Imagine that!   :D
Black Friday 03-03-2006
03-23-06 CD4 359 @27.4% VL 75,938
06-01-06 CD4 462 @24.3% VL > 100,000
08-15-06 CD4 388 @22.8% VL >  "
10-21-06 CD4 285 @21.9% VL >  "
  Atripla started 12-01-2006
01-08-07 CD4 429 @26.8% VL 1872!
05-08-07 CD4 478 @28.1% VL 740
08-03-07 CD4 509 @31.8% VL 370
11-06-07 CD4 570 @30.0% VL 140
02-21-08 CD4 648 @32.4% VL 600
05-19-08 CD4 695 @33.1% VL < 48 undetectable!
08-21-08 CD4 725 @34.5%
11-11-08 CD4 672 @39.5%
02-11-09 CD4 773 @36.8%
05-11-09 CD4 615 @36.2%
08-19-09 CD4 770 @38.5%
11-19-09 CD4 944 @33.7%
02-17-10 CD4 678 @39.9%  
06-03-10 CD4 768 @34.9%
09-21-10 CD4 685 @40.3%
01-10-11 CD4 908 @36.3%
05-23-11 CD4 846 @36.8% VL 80
02-13-12 CD4 911 @41.4% VL<20
You must be the change you want to see in the world.  Mahatma Gandhi

Offline next2u

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #16 on: November 29, 2007, 02:05:25 am »
hmm...i can swallow just about anything also.
midapr07 - seroconversion
sept07 - tested poz
oct07 cd4 1013; vl 13,900; cd4% 41
feb08 cd4  694;  vl 16,160; cd4% 50.1
may08 cd4 546; vl 91,480; cd4% 32
aug08 cd4 576; vl 48,190; cd4% 40.7
dec08 cd4 559; vl 63,020; cd4% 29.4
feb09 cd4 464; vl 11,000; cd4% 26
may09 cd4 544; vl 29,710; cd4% 27.2
oct09 cd4 ...; vl 23,350; cd4% 31.6
mar10 cd4 408; vl 59,050; cd4% 31.4
aug10 cd4 328; vl 80,000; cd4% 19.3 STARTED ATRIPLA
oct10 cd4 423; vl 410 ;); cd4% 30.2
jun11 cd4 439; vl <20 ;); cd4% 33.8 <-Undetectable!
mar12 cd4 695; vl ud; cd4% 38.6
jan13 cd4 738; vl ud; cd4% 36.8
aug13 cd4 930; vl ud; cd4% 44.3
jan14 cd4 813; vl ud; cd4% 42.8
may14 cd4 783; vl *; cd4%43.5
sept14 cd4 990; vl ud; cd4% *
jun15 cd4 1152; vl ud; cd4% *
july15 - STRIBILD
oct15 cd4 583; vl 146; cd4% 42
mar16 cd4 860; vl 20; 44

Offline Mouse

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #17 on: November 29, 2007, 02:44:19 am »
I don't have any problems with it either.



...
ahem.

Offline StrongGuy

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #18 on: November 29, 2007, 03:10:32 am »
I still take the Truvada/Sustiva as two seperate pills but have been planning to switch to the Atripla horse pill and will likely get my new script as Atripla after my refills run out (love torturing myself with extra co-pays). Sustiva seems big to me now can only imagine the Atripla. I have a friend who had a bad experience witha  breathingh tube and ever since then he can't swallow pills - he crushes them (though he's neg and obviously wouldn't be advised for HIV meds).

The best route sounds like getting the smaller doses and take multiples instead of torturing yourself with the horse pill.

Good luck!
Mike ;)
"Get your medical advice from Doctors or medical professionals who you trust and know your history."

"Beware of the fortune teller doom and gloomers who seek to bring you down and are only looking for company, purpose and validation - not your best physical/mental interests."

"You know you all are saying that this is incurable. When the real thing you should be saying is it's not curable at the present time' because as we know, the great strides we've made in medicine." - Elizabeth Edwards

Offline BT65

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #19 on: November 29, 2007, 07:43:11 am »
OK, I don't mean to hijack this, but what are fish oil pills taken for?  I have read about people taking them several times on here, and I used to know what they were good for, but can't remember now.

As far as swallowing pills, Mark, I don't have any problems.  I don't think I ever did.  I hope you find something that works for you, Queenie.  I agree that only taking 1/2 of your Atripla could probably lead to some problems.
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Offline J.R.E.

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #20 on: November 29, 2007, 07:53:31 am »
OK, I don't mean to hijack this, but what are fish oil pills taken for?  I have read about people taking them several times on here, and I used to know what they were good for, but can't remember now.



Hi Betty,

Fish oil capsules, contain the omega 3 fatty acids ( the good fat) that may possibly help in lowering the triglycerides thus keeping a healthier cardio-vascular system : Here's a little more info. I take the 1500mg dailyof fish oil.


http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/fish-oil/NS_patient-fishoil


Ray

Current Meds ; Viramune / Epzicom Eliquis, Diltiazem. Pravastatin 80mg, Ezetimibe. UPDATED 2/18/24
 Tested positive in 1985,.. In October of 2003, My t-cell count was 16, Viral load was over 500,000, Percentage at that time was 5%. I started on  HAART on October 24th, 2003.

 As of Oct 2nd, 2023, Viral load Undetectable.
CD 4 @676 /  CD4 % @ 18 %
Lymphocytes,absolute-3815 (within range)


72 YEARS YOUNG

Offline Miss Philicia

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #21 on: November 29, 2007, 09:52:09 am »
I've not seen this Atripla horse pill's size.  What are the dimensions of this thing anyway?
"I’ve slept with enough men to know that I’m not gay"

Offline bear60

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #22 on: November 29, 2007, 10:27:48 am »
I am waiting for todays blow by blow.  ;D ;D :o
Poz Bear Type in Philadelphia

Offline David_CA

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #23 on: November 29, 2007, 10:45:48 am »
I've not seen this Atripla horse pill's size.  What are the dimensions of this thing anyway?

It's not that big to me.  I measure 3/4" x 7/16" x 3/8"... + or - of course.  It's rounded and curved on all dimensions, so it's not as big as a cube of those dimensions.
Black Friday 03-03-2006
03-23-06 CD4 359 @27.4% VL 75,938
06-01-06 CD4 462 @24.3% VL > 100,000
08-15-06 CD4 388 @22.8% VL >  "
10-21-06 CD4 285 @21.9% VL >  "
  Atripla started 12-01-2006
01-08-07 CD4 429 @26.8% VL 1872!
05-08-07 CD4 478 @28.1% VL 740
08-03-07 CD4 509 @31.8% VL 370
11-06-07 CD4 570 @30.0% VL 140
02-21-08 CD4 648 @32.4% VL 600
05-19-08 CD4 695 @33.1% VL < 48 undetectable!
08-21-08 CD4 725 @34.5%
11-11-08 CD4 672 @39.5%
02-11-09 CD4 773 @36.8%
05-11-09 CD4 615 @36.2%
08-19-09 CD4 770 @38.5%
11-19-09 CD4 944 @33.7%
02-17-10 CD4 678 @39.9%  
06-03-10 CD4 768 @34.9%
09-21-10 CD4 685 @40.3%
01-10-11 CD4 908 @36.3%
05-23-11 CD4 846 @36.8% VL 80
02-13-12 CD4 911 @41.4% VL<20
You must be the change you want to see in the world.  Mahatma Gandhi

BobF

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #24 on: November 29, 2007, 02:56:33 pm »
LOL ... I have to agree that Atripla is a "horse pill".   I take alot of other pills and can take all of them at once, but Atripla has to go on it's own, with a drink standing by for that quick after swallow.    I've had bigger things down my throat  ;) but they must have been more fun!

Offline Winiroo

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #25 on: November 29, 2007, 03:56:10 pm »
I've had the same problems with Norvir.  Just to give you an idea at the orthodontist they had to use child sized bites for me as my mouth is small.
I take a drink then take a mouthful of whatever I am drinking and tilt my head back then insert the pill and swallow while looking up. It still sticks in my throat a little but it always manages to go down enough that I can chug enough fluids to push it all the way down.
I like the idea of coating the throat with yogurt or pudding. I may have to try that. I've been taking them with cocoa so the norvir will melt quicker in my stomach.

Offline newt

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #26 on: November 29, 2007, 04:15:00 pm »
Comparisons attached (about life size) - Sustiva about same dimension as Atripla in 2 dimensions but much more width

- matt


[attachment deleted by admin]
"The object is to be a well patient, not a good patient"

Offline Miss Philicia

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #27 on: November 29, 2007, 04:35:51 pm »
Oh.  It's just the same size as Norvir?  I can probably swallow 8 of those at once.
"I’ve slept with enough men to know that I’m not gay"

Offline newt

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #28 on: November 29, 2007, 04:46:46 pm »
Practice makes perfect  ;)
"The object is to be a well patient, not a good patient"

Offline Miss Philicia

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #29 on: November 29, 2007, 04:56:17 pm »
I tricked with a man in Yonkers once who made me spit up my dinner he was so huge.  I think that's the only time I embarrassed myself like that, though he seemed to enjoy the inflated ego.
"I’ve slept with enough men to know that I’m not gay"

Offline Queen Tokelove

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #30 on: November 29, 2007, 05:29:04 pm »
Thanks for all the good advice on getting it down. I was able to get both halves down last night. I was thinking of switiching to individual pills but if Sustiva is the same size as the Atripla then I would have the same problem. It doesn't happen all the time but I will be giving Nurse Leah a call. Funny, My ID doc and pharmacist said that there is not a problem cutting them in half but some of you say there is. Why is that as long as I am getting them both down.

I never had a problem getting the fish oil pills down when I was taking them. Maybe I will try to take the Atripla whole with some of the ideas that you have given me. I am just hoping that I haven't built a resistant by only taking half those 3 times which were spaced out not like 3 days in a row. I guess I will know when I get my next blood draw. Thanks Again....
Started Atripla/Ziagen on 9/13/07.
10/31/07 CD4-265 VL- undetectable
2/6/08 CD4- 401 VL- undetectable
5/7/08 CD4- 705 VL- undetectable
6/4/08 CD4- 775 VL- undetectable
8/6/08 CD4- 805 VL- undetectable
11/13/08 CD4- 774 VL--undetectable
2/4/09  CD4- 484  VL- 18,000 (2 months off meds)
3/3/09---Starting Back on Meds---
4/27/09 CD4- 664 VL-- undetectable
6/17/09 CD4- 438 VL- 439
8/09 CD4- 404 VL- 1,600
01-22-10-- CD4- 525 VL- 59,000
Cherish the simple things life has to offer

Offline aztecan

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #31 on: November 29, 2007, 06:35:15 pm »
Hey Akasha,

I think what Newt and the others meant regarding the cutting in half is if the pill crumbles, you might not get the full dosage even if you swallow both halves.

If it doesn't crumble, then I guess it should be OK as long as you take both halves.

I like the pudding and gravy idea. Also, I have heard of some people taking large pills with applesauce.

Good luck hon.

HUGS,

Mark
"May your life preach more loudly than your lips."
~ William Ellery Channing (Unitarian Minister)

Offline fearless

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #32 on: November 29, 2007, 06:42:03 pm »
hey Queen,

I suspect that half the problem is anxiety. If you are anxious about getting the pill down, your throat automatically tightens up and makes the whole process more difficult. Before HIV meds, I had difficulty getting even the smallest pill down. Now, I have little difficulty with my Kaletra and my fish oil tablets which are enourmous.

I find this method generally works for me. Try to relax, and take a deep breath before you start. I usually start with the fish oil - the largest pill, but also a nice slippery gel cap that glides down fairly easily. Take a small sip of water to moisten your mouth and throat. Place the pill lenghtwase in the middle of your tongue, and take a medium sized sip of water. The fish oil one normally slides down, no problemo. Repeat the process with each pill. Seems to work for me.

If it does get stuck, I spit it out rather than trying to force it, walk away for ten minutes or so, calm down and try again.
Be forgiving, be grateful, be optimistic

Offline Queen Tokelove

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #33 on: November 29, 2007, 07:28:04 pm »
I got one of those pill slicer thingies. The Atripla doesn't crumble at all. It's a nice clean cut. I get half down but still feel it in my throat so I drink some more. My technique is usually just put the pill in my mouth and add something to drink and throw my head back. Wrong technique?
Started Atripla/Ziagen on 9/13/07.
10/31/07 CD4-265 VL- undetectable
2/6/08 CD4- 401 VL- undetectable
5/7/08 CD4- 705 VL- undetectable
6/4/08 CD4- 775 VL- undetectable
8/6/08 CD4- 805 VL- undetectable
11/13/08 CD4- 774 VL--undetectable
2/4/09  CD4- 484  VL- 18,000 (2 months off meds)
3/3/09---Starting Back on Meds---
4/27/09 CD4- 664 VL-- undetectable
6/17/09 CD4- 438 VL- 439
8/09 CD4- 404 VL- 1,600
01-22-10-- CD4- 525 VL- 59,000
Cherish the simple things life has to offer

Offline fearless

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #34 on: November 29, 2007, 07:51:42 pm »
throwing your head back is probably not the best idea as it restricts your throat. Try keeping your head in the normal position one takes when drinking a mouthful of liquid. the pill should pretty much slide straight back off your tongue and down your throat.
Be forgiving, be grateful, be optimistic

Offline Miss Philicia

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #35 on: November 29, 2007, 08:12:38 pm »
Queen, are you perching that pill on the end of your tongue or are you throwing way to wards the back?  Got to do the latter, and swallow liquid immediately after that.
"I’ve slept with enough men to know that I’m not gay"

Offline Queen Tokelove

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #36 on: November 29, 2007, 09:26:24 pm »
I usually put the pill in the back of my throat then throw my head back. Tonight I will try fearless's way and see how that goes. If that doesn't work then I'll go on to the yogurt. Hmm, how long does yogurt stay good for? Mine has been in the fridge for about a month. Still good?
Started Atripla/Ziagen on 9/13/07.
10/31/07 CD4-265 VL- undetectable
2/6/08 CD4- 401 VL- undetectable
5/7/08 CD4- 705 VL- undetectable
6/4/08 CD4- 775 VL- undetectable
8/6/08 CD4- 805 VL- undetectable
11/13/08 CD4- 774 VL--undetectable
2/4/09  CD4- 484  VL- 18,000 (2 months off meds)
3/3/09---Starting Back on Meds---
4/27/09 CD4- 664 VL-- undetectable
6/17/09 CD4- 438 VL- 439
8/09 CD4- 404 VL- 1,600
01-22-10-- CD4- 525 VL- 59,000
Cherish the simple things life has to offer

Offline Winiroo

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #37 on: November 29, 2007, 10:02:25 pm »
I dont know how long it lasts cause I hate yogurt. Except the frozen kind LOL
But I do know you dont want to eat from the container and put it back in the fridge. The saliva from the spoon will start breaking down the yogurt like when you digest it. So if it is watery you dont want to eat it.

Offline Queen Tokelove

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #38 on: November 30, 2007, 12:42:43 am »
Nope, the yogurt hasn't been opened yet......Anyone?
Started Atripla/Ziagen on 9/13/07.
10/31/07 CD4-265 VL- undetectable
2/6/08 CD4- 401 VL- undetectable
5/7/08 CD4- 705 VL- undetectable
6/4/08 CD4- 775 VL- undetectable
8/6/08 CD4- 805 VL- undetectable
11/13/08 CD4- 774 VL--undetectable
2/4/09  CD4- 484  VL- 18,000 (2 months off meds)
3/3/09---Starting Back on Meds---
4/27/09 CD4- 664 VL-- undetectable
6/17/09 CD4- 438 VL- 439
8/09 CD4- 404 VL- 1,600
01-22-10-- CD4- 525 VL- 59,000
Cherish the simple things life has to offer

Offline Miss Philicia

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #39 on: November 30, 2007, 01:07:16 am »
Doesn't it have a "use by" date?
"I’ve slept with enough men to know that I’m not gay"

Offline Queen Tokelove

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #40 on: November 30, 2007, 02:01:16 am »
Doesn't it have a "use by" date?

Duh? It prolly does. I need to get off my ass and look next time I go to get a glass of Pepsi... ;)
Started Atripla/Ziagen on 9/13/07.
10/31/07 CD4-265 VL- undetectable
2/6/08 CD4- 401 VL- undetectable
5/7/08 CD4- 705 VL- undetectable
6/4/08 CD4- 775 VL- undetectable
8/6/08 CD4- 805 VL- undetectable
11/13/08 CD4- 774 VL--undetectable
2/4/09  CD4- 484  VL- 18,000 (2 months off meds)
3/3/09---Starting Back on Meds---
4/27/09 CD4- 664 VL-- undetectable
6/17/09 CD4- 438 VL- 439
8/09 CD4- 404 VL- 1,600
01-22-10-- CD4- 525 VL- 59,000
Cherish the simple things life has to offer

Offline allopathicholistic

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #41 on: December 02, 2007, 06:11:00 pm »
I am a bit concerned about my Atripla pill. When I first started it, I had a time swallowing it because it is so damn big. My ID doc said that I could cut it in half which what I have been doing. But lately, it seems like I can only get down half the pill.

I would pretend it's my favorite food. I would try to recall the taste, the texture and how satisfying it is. If you find you can't do it like this cold, I would eat the favorite food for 3 straight days and during those days really try to lock the taste into your memory so you can do a recall if you ever encounter the pill-swallowing problem

Offline Queen Tokelove

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #42 on: December 02, 2007, 06:13:55 pm »
I will have to try that one, Allo.....So far so good, I have been getting them down....Still didn't go check the yogurt date yet----I keep forgetting.... :D
Started Atripla/Ziagen on 9/13/07.
10/31/07 CD4-265 VL- undetectable
2/6/08 CD4- 401 VL- undetectable
5/7/08 CD4- 705 VL- undetectable
6/4/08 CD4- 775 VL- undetectable
8/6/08 CD4- 805 VL- undetectable
11/13/08 CD4- 774 VL--undetectable
2/4/09  CD4- 484  VL- 18,000 (2 months off meds)
3/3/09---Starting Back on Meds---
4/27/09 CD4- 664 VL-- undetectable
6/17/09 CD4- 438 VL- 439
8/09 CD4- 404 VL- 1,600
01-22-10-- CD4- 525 VL- 59,000
Cherish the simple things life has to offer

Offline anniebc

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #43 on: December 02, 2007, 06:24:36 pm »
Hey Queenie

I take my Norvir with a spoonful of Yoghurt and it works a treat, the others I have no problems with.

Get that bloody date on the yoghurt checked young lady, the last think you need is to be sitting on the Loo with a bucket at your feet... ;)

Hugs
Jan :-*
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Never knock on deaths door..ring the bell and run..he really hates that.

Offline Matty the Damned

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #44 on: December 02, 2007, 06:30:35 pm »
Ja, the norvir capsule is a sticky one. It gets stuck in Matty the Damned's infernal gullet from time to time. He washes it down with the blood of orphans.

MtD

Offline emeraldize

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #45 on: December 02, 2007, 06:40:42 pm »
He washes it down with the blood of orphans.

Blood of orphans goes at a high price in the US and has a short shelf-life. Yogurt is less expensive and longer shelf life, but not as tasty.

Offline Matty the Damned

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #46 on: December 02, 2007, 06:48:55 pm »
I have several chained up in my garage. I tap a vein as needed.

MtD

Offline emeraldize

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #47 on: December 02, 2007, 06:53:12 pm »
Hemaculture. You Australians are clever.

Offline 404error

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #48 on: December 02, 2007, 08:26:24 pm »
I learned two things reading this thread. 

1.  Atripla pills are big and not easy to swallow.

2.  Gay men never pass up an opportunity to boast about the ease with which large objects glide down their throats.
A social critic who promotes equality...

Offline Queen Tokelove

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Re: Having difficulties swallowing this damn horsepill......
« Reply #49 on: December 02, 2007, 08:38:09 pm »
404--- I don't mind my thread being hijacked for educational purposes....Who do you think I get advice from..Gay men.... ;)

Jan--- I know, I know...I keep reaching for the Pepsi which is up front and the yogurt is way in the back of the fridge.... :D

Matty--- Blood of orphaned children, huh? I prefer the blood of evil doers..... ;)
Started Atripla/Ziagen on 9/13/07.
10/31/07 CD4-265 VL- undetectable
2/6/08 CD4- 401 VL- undetectable
5/7/08 CD4- 705 VL- undetectable
6/4/08 CD4- 775 VL- undetectable
8/6/08 CD4- 805 VL- undetectable
11/13/08 CD4- 774 VL--undetectable
2/4/09  CD4- 484  VL- 18,000 (2 months off meds)
3/3/09---Starting Back on Meds---
4/27/09 CD4- 664 VL-- undetectable
6/17/09 CD4- 438 VL- 439
8/09 CD4- 404 VL- 1,600
01-22-10-- CD4- 525 VL- 59,000
Cherish the simple things life has to offer

 


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