Pill swallowing ability and training in children 6 to 11 years of age

Clin Pediatr (Phila). 2006 Oct;45(8):725-33. doi: 10.1177/0009922806292786.

Abstract

Despite the widespread view that children have difficulty swallowing pills, data are limited. In an observational cohort study, pill swallowing ability (small oral tablet) was assessed in children age 6 to 11 years. A total of 113 of 124 subjects (91%) swallowed a tablet using an ordinary cup or a patented pill cup. All 57 subjects who initially said they could swallow a pill were capable. Forty-seven learned with an ordinary cup and nine with the pill cup. Eleven did not learn. The majority of children (91%) age 6 to 11 years were able to successfully swallow a small oral tablet.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Cohort Studies
  • Deglutition / physiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Observation
  • Pain Measurement
  • Prospective Studies
  • Tablets / administration & dosage*
  • Teaching

Substances

  • Tablets