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Follow the steps below when you can’t get a liquid or chewable form of medicine for a child that has trouble swallowing pills.

Safety check

Before crushing a pill, ask your pharmacist, nurse or doctor if it is safe to do. Not all medicines can be used this way.

Steps for crushing pills

For “capsules,” which are pills with a shell:

1. Wash your hands.
2. Open the shell and sprinkle the powder into juice, applesauce or jam.
3. Immediately feed your child the mixture.

For “tablets,” which are pills without a shell:

1. Wash your hands.
2. Place the tablet into a small, dry bowl or teacup.
3. Crush the pill into a fine powder with the back of a dry, metal spoon. Break up all big pieces.
4. Sprinkle the powder into juice, applesauce or pudding.
5. Immediately feed your child the mixture.

Common foods & drinks to mix a pill into

• Chocolate or lemon pudding
• Strawberry, chocolate or caramel syrup
• Applesauce
• Jam
• Ice cream
• Yogurt

Important safety information

• Make sure your child eats all of the food the medication is mixed in!
• Medicines should never be baked into food.
• Ask your local pharmacist if there are any foods your child should avoid when they start a new medicine.

You can do this!

• Stay calm: If your child sees that you are calm, it will help them stay calm.
• Be firm: If your child resists, be firm and give a reason. (“You must take it. It will make you feel better.”)
• Celebrate success: Hug your child or give them a big high-five after they take the pill.