Splitting Pills

Bob DeMarco with “Alzheimer’s Reading Room” writes on saving money by splitting pills. Buy a pill that is twice the daily dosage, and then cut it in half. It is necessary to consult your physician before doing so, but doing this can also help cut down on your co-pay.

There is more to splitting pills then meets the eye. There are caveats.
You should ask you doctor before splitting a pill. Not all medications can be split.
For example,

• Extended-release pills that deliver medication over time cannot be split.
• Pills that crumble easily or are awkwardly shaped cannot be split.
• Gel capsules cannot be split.
• Combination tablets that contain more than one medication cannot be split.
• Pills coated to protect the stomach from irritation cannot be split.

These are some of the easier to explain examples.
Here is something you might not know. Tablets that are scored, with a visible line across them, are made that way to indicate approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to split the tablets.
Many blood pressure, cholesterol (statins), and antidepressants medications can be split. Viagra can be split.
It is nearly impossible to cut a pill correctly with a knife. In order to accomplish this mission you need to purchase a pill cutter. I bought the one I use in Walmart for $3.95. Works like a charm.

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