How do I split lipitor into 4ths???? - High Cholesterol Message Board

BioAdoptMom3 · 09-25-2005, 07:59 PM

I am really frustrated about this. I am on 5 mg. of lipitor. Since the smallest dose they make is 10 mg. my doctor gave me some samples and had me cut them in half. When I went to get the script filled they infomed me that my insurance doesn't cover 10 mg. only 20 and up (makes no sense to me, but whatever). So, the doctor ordered 20 mg. with instuctions to cut them into 4ths. I have tried. After cutting one in half, when I try to cut it again, it just shatters and I am left with little pieces. It is either that, or I get a few chuncks, and the rest is unusable. Yesterday I probably took about 3 mg. and today it was probably about 8 because I can't even get them close to being equal. Any suggestions?

Nancy

JJ · 09-25-2005, 08:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BioAdoptMom3

I am really frustrated about this. I am on 5 mg. of lipitor. Since the smallest dose they make is 10 mg. my doctor gave me some samples and had me cut them in half. When I went to get the script filled they infomed me that my insurance doesn't cover 10 mg. only 20 and up (makes no sense to me, but whatever). So, the doctor ordered 20 mg. with instuctions to cut them into 4ths. I have tried. After cutting one in half, when I try to cut it again, it just shatters and I am left with little pieces. It is either that, or I get a few chuncks, and the rest is unusable. Yesterday I probably took about 3 mg. and today it was probably about 8 because I can't even get them close to being equal. Any suggestions?

Nancy

Oh brother, that sounds like it is not going to be an easy chore. Can't believe the insurance will only cover 20mgs., how stupid is that? Have U used one of those pill cutter things U get at a drugstore? Don't get too frustrated, try calling the dr. or the pharmacist and see if they can offer any suggestions.

Best of luck kiddo....

ARIZONA73 · 09-25-2005, 09:06 PM

I'm afraid I can't be of much help. But we have one person on this board who may be of help, and his name is Lenin. He is used to splitting pills, so perhaps he can be of some help to you.

Bharat2005 · 09-26-2005, 12:20 AM

There are tablet cutters . If your local pharmacy doesnt have one, try searching for EZY Dose Tablet Cutter in ***********

Lenin · 09-26-2005, 07:47 AM

Hmmm,

Tens into halves is easy but 20's into quarters is tough.
Do it with a safety razor blade (one sharp side.) Start with a little sawing motion to get a little notch before beariing down.

If that mashes the pills, try the final break by notching the 10 mg. piece on BOTH sides and then, if your fingers are small enough, grab each end try to snap them. I have big hands and I wouldn't be able to do it, although I can snap the 20's into two tens with just my hands, no notching needed.

A pill cutter will tend to smash the small pieces because it exerts only pressure (no cutting action)...like trying to slice a ripe tomato with just pressure...SQUOOSH!

OK, I tried a 20 iinto 4 pieces...I was successful with notching and then pressing...it cut cleanly. (Now I must remember to take both pieces tonight

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