What to Do If Emergency Contraceptive Gets Stuck in Your Throat?

If a premedication tablet gets stuck in the throat, it may lead to several potential effects. The medication may not dissolve properly, which can result in reduced efficacy or delayed onset of action. Additionally, it could cause irritation or discomfort in the throat

Hello doctor, I took the third pill from the fourth pack of my pre-medication around noon.
The pill got stuck in my throat.
I felt it stuck there yesterday as well, and today it still feels stuck.
I had noodle soup for lunch and quickly drank some broth and ate some noodles, but it still feels lodged.
I kept drinking water until I vomited, but the pill did not come out.
Will this affect the efficacy of the pre-medication? If the pill dissolved, would its effects adhere to the food? Would the food I vomited affect the medication's efficacy? Should I continue taking the medication?

Anjing, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/09/07

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, you should have taken it.
Generally, it does not have an impact, so you can continue taking your medication at the usual time.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/09/07

More Info

If you find yourself in a situation where an emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) gets stuck in your throat, it can be concerning. Here’s how to handle it and what you need to know about the effectiveness of the medication.

First and foremost, if you feel that a pill is stuck in your throat, it’s important to remain calm. Panic can exacerbate the situation. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Drink Water: Continue to drink water to help wash down the pill. Sometimes, a few sips of water can help dislodge the pill from your throat. You can also try taking a few small bites of soft food, like bread or a banana, which may help push the pill down.

2. Avoid Inducing Vomiting: If you feel the need to vomit, it’s best to avoid inducing it unless absolutely necessary. Vomiting can lead to further complications and may not necessarily help in dislodging the pill.

3. Monitor Symptoms: If you experience severe pain, difficulty breathing, or if the sensation of the pill being stuck persists, seek medical attention immediately. These could be signs of a more serious issue, such as an obstruction in the airway.

Now, regarding the effectiveness of the emergency contraceptive pill:
- Dissolution and Absorption: Emergency contraceptive pills are designed to dissolve in the stomach and be absorbed into the bloodstream. If the pill is stuck in your throat, it may not dissolve properly, which could affect its effectiveness. However, if you manage to swallow it down with water or food, it should begin to dissolve and work as intended.

- Effect on Effectiveness: If you vomit shortly after taking the pill, it may affect its effectiveness. Generally, if vomiting occurs within two hours of taking the pill, it is advisable to take another dose. If you are unsure, consult a healthcare provider for guidance.

- Food Interaction: If the pill has dissolved and mixed with food in your stomach, it should still be effective. The active ingredients in the emergency contraceptive are not likely to be adversely affected by the food you consumed. However, if you vomit and the food comes back up, it could potentially reduce the effectiveness of the pill.

- Continuing Medication: If you are unsure about whether the pill was effective due to the situation, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances.

In conclusion, if you feel a pill is stuck in your throat, try drinking water or eating soft food to help dislodge it. Monitor your symptoms closely, and if you experience any severe discomfort or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately. Regarding the effectiveness of the emergency contraceptive, if you are uncertain about whether it was absorbed properly, consult a healthcare provider for further advice. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

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