Is it okay to break open a Flucloxacillin capsule and just take the powder in water?

Question

I have a MAJOR problem in swallowing pills.

I would appreciate advice which didn't mean me consulting my doctor as it's a difficult time for me and I would appreciate the quick help. Thank you.

Answer 1

Yes, it would be alright to open the capsule and take its contents. However, the powder is extremely unpleasant to taste so I think you should try to take the capsule as it is.

If you have a problem swallowing pills perhaps next time ask the doctor to prescribe the equivalent suspension or elixir.

Flucloxacillin is available as a suspension.

Just as an addition - the contents of the capsule shouldn't deactivate in water. The flucloxacillin that is present in the capsule is flucloxacillin sodium monohydrate, which is the same as what is present in the suspensions. The powder contents of the suspension are reconstituted with water just before they are dispensed. So adding water to flucloxacillin sodium monohydrate should be fine.

Answer 2

You could probably ask your pharmacist, who would not charge you for the advice.  Each mediciation is different, and needs to be ingested in different ways.

Answer 3

No No No - putting it into water will deactivate it.

You can mix it with applesauce or pudding and that would be ok.