Finally back with the Program after not being able to see a Doctor since July 2009. I had my band installed in Philadelphia and then ended up moving out to California due to divorce and had lost insurance because plan didn't cover visits here. Was able to find a Doctor here two hours away that was on my current health plan. I had backslid during the time of being off and I guess it somewhat loosened. I would have periodic sticks, but nothing that I generally couldn't manage. I just had a fill last Thursday of an additional 1cc so now I am at 7cc in my band. Things are going ok during the day but I have a nighttime pill I take which is on the large side and I cannot cut it in half. Last couple of days I have had a bit of a backup I guess I ate then took the pill with the food still not all the way down, some of it came up. Then tonight I took the pill and a half hour later tried to eat something which I think was too soon. I did the sliming thing, and last night i had the PB's which seemed to take care of the problem. It has been awhile and I think with all that I probably still have a bit of swelling inside as well. Anyone know tips or tricks to taking a large pill, to make sure it goes down? Do you take it after you eat and how long do you wait. I have read to drink something warm to help relax the stomach. I am able to drink liquids, protein shakes, I did eat some chicken which was fine when chewed well. It was just I guess learning to space the meal and the pill taking and in which order is the best. Anyway.. Hi to everyone i am doing alot of reading and learning about what you all are going through. I will add I did not have any problems with my pill at 6cc in it, and I can't remember but will it loosen up slightly? Just curious..

I would take the pill on an empty stomach, so it has a better chance of going down. If needed, you can always the drinking water after the pill til it's flushed through.

Thank you for the info! So this might sound silly but will the pill stop the water going through? Or will the water still go thru and help wash the band through if the rest of the pouch is empty? I was even trying to find a video of what it looks like internally for where the pills usually sit etc.. lol.. I am now rusty on all I had learned so I am trying to learn FAST!!