Cutting pills may seem like an easy task, but it can be challenging, especially for those who have limited dexterity or difficulty swallowing large tablets. In this article, we’ll provide 10 steps to help you accurately and safely cut pills.

1. Gather necessary tools: To start, you’ll need a pill cutter or a sharp knife, a clean cutting surface, a small plate or tray to catch the cut pieces, and a small resealable container for storage.

2. Review the pill instructions: Always check the medication label or consult with your pharmacist before cutting a pill. Some medications should not be cut due to their formulation or time-release features.

3. Clean your work area: Disinfect your cutting surface to prevent contamination and avoid any potential interactions with other substances.

4. Position the pill: Using clean hands, place the pill on the cutting surface. If using a pill cutter, position the pill in the designated area to ensure even cutting.

5. Align the cutter or knife: If using a knife, carefully line up the blade with the score line or center of the pill. If using a pill cutter, close the lid with gentle pressure until you hear a slight crunch sound.

6. Cut the pill: Apply steady downward pressure to cut through the pill cleanly. For larger pills or harder-to-cut ones, it may be more effective to use a sawing motion back and forth gently.

7. Check for accuracy: Open the pill cutter or remove your hand from atop the cutting surface and assess if both halves are relatively equal in size.

8. Collect medication fragments: Place both halves of the cut pill on a tray or small plate, then carefully gather any loose fragments for consumption.

9. Store cut pills properly: If you’re not consuming both halves immediately, place one half in a sealed container labeled with medication information and proper dosage. This is essential for accurate dosage and reducing potential confusion later.

10. Clean-up: Always clean your tools and work area between uses to maintain hygiene and avoid cross-contamination with other medications.

Note: It’s always crucial to talk to your healthcare professional before making any changes to medication administration, including cutting pills, to ensure that it’s safe and appropriate for your specific needs.