Seniors at Greater Risk of Choking on Dietary Supplements

A new study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine suggests seniors may be more likely than younger adults to choke on vitamins and dietary supplements, or to have other difficulties swallowing them, reports Physician's Weekly . The researchers reviewed 10 years' worth of adverse event reports, and learned that 76.8 percent of cases involving swallowing problems were in adults 65 and older. "Multivitamins are used by up to 35 percent and calcium supplements by up to 24 percent of older adults, who have higher rates of swallowing issues than younger persons," the team wrote. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) spokesperson Lindsay Haake recommends seniors taking supplements should be mindful of the choking hazard. "They should avoid taking several pills at once, avoid extra-large pills or capsules, and swallow supplements with plenty of water or other fluid," she says. For larger-sized supplements, the FDA advises consultation with doctors. "Tell your physician you are having difficulty swallowing pills and ask him/her or your pharmacist for other options or if you can cut the supplement in half," Haake notes. "The FDA advises all consumers to talk to their doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional before deciding to purchase or use a dietary supplement."