Myths vs Facts: Can You Take Tablets with Cold Water?

One of the great doubts that linger in many people’s minds when it comes to medication is whether it is safe to wash down tablets with cold water or not. The temperature of the water used may not seem to matter much; nevertheless, it could influence in a slight measure how medicine reacts inside the body. Let’s get into the storyline.

Importance of Water in Medical Preparation

For the foremost part, with medicines, it is water that dissolves and absorbs in the stomach. Therefore, with medicines, generally, lukewarm water or water with room temperature is suggested to allow proper breakdown of the tablet. Guess what? Cold water reduces the disintegration slightly- somewhat depending on the type of tablet in question; for example, it would matter somewhat for coated tablets or larger tablets.

Are Tablets Hurt by Cold Water?

In a majority of the cases, swallow tablets with cold water will not be harmful for most of the people. The medicine works anyway, but once in a while, cold water might irritate the stomach for just a bit causing a little delay in absorption. In case of someone who suffers from defective digestion or slow metabolism, taking cold water with the medicines should be eschewed.

Exceptions Against Cold Water Use in Tablets

Weak digestion – Cold water could diminish the acidity of the stomach and hence interfere with the breakdown of the medicine.

Sore throat or cough – Cold water could further irritate the throat.

Elderly or sensitive people – Bloating and discomfort could occur to them.

Best Way to Take Tablets

Take the safest route: It is best to swallow a medicine with a full glass of water at room temperature. This allows the tablet to slide easily down the esophagus without any irritation, thus promoting fast absorption. Unless otherwise stated by your physician, it is best to avoid taking medications with tea, coffee, juice, or alcohol, as these beverages may interfere with the medicines.

Also Read: Hot Water vs Cold Water in Summer – Which Is Best?

Getting tablets down every now and again with cold water wouldn’t harm anyone, but room temperature is always best, making far greater sense. This impacts dissolution a little bit, which subsequently affects absorption and hence the drug’s efficacy. But when unsure- your doc knows best.