Poison prevention
Never crush medicine without instruction
Keep tablets whole as labelled; split, chew, or crush only with explicit instructions from a doctor or pharmacist.
Last reviewed: 2026-09-12
Why it matters
Crushing some tablets changes how the medicine is released or how much is delivered and may cause harm.
Wrong action
Crushing every tablet into congee or a drink because the person has difficulty swallowing.
Correct action
Pause and tell the employer so a doctor or pharmacist can confirm the correct option for that medicine.
What to do
- Read the label and keep the tablet in its original form.
- If swallowing is difficult, pause; do not crush or mix it into food.
- Ask the employer to obtain medicine-specific advice from a doctor or pharmacist.
If something happens
If a medicine was crushed by mistake or an error is suspected, do not give another dose. Keep the packaging, tell the employer, seek healthcare advice, and call 999 if serious.
Sources and review
- Department of Health, Drug Office — General Knowledge on the Use of Medicines
Last reviewed: 2026-09-12
This page provides general home-safety information and does not replace medical, legal, electrical, or other professional advice.