How to Take Softgels

Medically reviewed by Sarah Gehrke, RN, MS

Last Updated: October 12, 2023 Fact Checked

Softgels are fast-acting, liquid-filled capsules. They can come as a form of vitamins, supplements, over-the-counter medications, or prescription drugs. Softgels are a popular choice of medication mainly because they are easier to swallow than pills or capsules. When taking them, be sure to check your instructions and determine the correct dosage. Just take a swig of water, and you’ve swallowed your softgels!

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:

Determining Dosage

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Read the instructions on your softgel package to find your dosage. Your dosage will be based on age and symptoms, and your package should detail this thoroughly. Every softgel will give different instructions based on the medication type.^{[1]
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- A typical dosage could be to take 2 softgels with water every 4 hours for adults and children 12 years or over.
- Reviewing instructions is especially important if taking daytime or nighttime softgel products. You wouldn’t want to take a sleep aid right before you start your work day!
Your prescription or over-the counter-package should list your dosage in the instructions. If it doesn’t or if you need clarification, you can ask either your doctor or pharmacist. They can clarify how much and how frequently you should take your softgels.^{[2]
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US Food and Drug Administration
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You cannot break up the dosage of softgels, for their contents are liquid, so never take more or less than listed. Taking more than directed can have many different health effects including overdose, depending on the medication. Taking less than directed prevents the medication from working.^{[3]
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Part 2

Part 2 of 2:

Swallowing the Softgel

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Most softgels are recommended to be taken with food, though it can get murky. If your instructions say to take with food, swallow your softgels with your meal or right after. If they do not, then you can take your softgels with water.^{[4]
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Twist off or pop open the lid, and retrieve your softgels, usually about 1 or 2 at a time.
Softgels are very easy to swallow and dissolve, though they come in a variety of sizes. You can take one at a time or your whole dose at once, depending on what’s comfortable for you.^{[5]
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Harvard Medical School
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You can also sip some water before you take your pill, in case your throat is dry.^{[6]
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Swallow both the pill and the water at the same time. The water will help the pill slide down your throat with ease.^{[7]
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- Most softgel instructions say to drink water with your softgels to help with digestion. Unless your softgel instructions state otherwise, you can also take them with juice.
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Swallow your softgels whole. Instead of crushing, chewing, or dissolving your softgels, swallow them with their coating intact, unless your doctor or pharmacist tells you to take them differently. Softgels contain liquid, and their outer coating is designed to dissolve in your stomach or small intestine.^{[8]
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- If you crush, chew, or dissolve a softgel that's meant to be time-released, it won't be absorbed into your system properly.

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Tips

Softgels are easy to swallow by design. If you typically have trouble swallowing pills, have an open mind when trying softgels. They may be easier than you think!

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Warnings

Liquid softgels have a shorter shelf life than most other pills or capsules, so check your softgels expiration date.

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If you are taking softgels for medical purposes (rather than supplements), and your symptoms last more than 7 days, you should contact your doctor. You may need a stronger prescription or other medical treatment.^{[9]
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