PEG advice

[Nettie]

Hi All, I’m currently taking Riluzole, Citalapram & Baclofen are these suitable to be crushed and put through the peg, I’m sick of choking now 🥴 Janette x

[Ellie]

Hi Janette,

It's always advisable to ask the pharmacist if particular tablets can be crushed - some have coatings that stop them being absorbed in the stomach or are extended/continuous release, so must be swallowed whole.

I crush my Riluzole and Baclofen (I don't take antidepressants) with my pharmacist's blessing and have done so for years. I make sure they are well crushed and take a good flush of water after to keep the tube freeflowing.

Those 3 meds are all available in liquid form - though you may need to battle for them as they're usually more expensive, especially the liquid Riluzole.

Have you tried taking them in thick yoghurt, mousse, jam, custard etc? But yes, you're right, it's not good if tablets cause you to choke - it's an aspiration risk.

Good luck.

Love Ellie.

[Nettie]

Thank Ellie, I thought that was the case I’ll get hubby to ask when he picks my script up, I’ve tried allsorts it’s a bit hit & miss some days I’m ok and then other times it’s awful it depends how much my tongue is working. Thanks Janette x

[Caddy]

Mum uses the liquid form of Rilutek through the peg tube and ni issues. I used to crush the tablets but soluble so much easier.

[Nettie]

Thank you Caddy, I’m going to request liquid form, because when I crush I can’t seem to get all the sediment in the syringe. Thanks again Janette x