Pill Cutter/Splitter is an over-the-counter device that allows you to split tablets into halves, quarters, or smaller portions. Splitting pills may be necessary to achieve a lower dosage than what the available pill provides. Also, splitting pills may make it easier for people with swallowing difficulties to take their medicine. However, not all pills are suitable for splitting. Some medications, especially time-release or coated ones, can be ineffective or even dangerous if split. It is always essential to consult with a doctor or pharmacist before splitting any medication. The Pill Cutter/Splitter is not a medicine and does not contain active ingredients. It belongs to a class called Class I medical devices. It works by providing a clean and even cut of a medicine without scattering it.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Pill Cutter/Splitter from Canada manufactured by Mansfield Medical. There is no generic for this product.
Pill Cutter/Splitter is not a drug and is not expected to cause side effects. However, potential issues related to pill splitting include the following:
• Exposure to medication dust;
• Loss of medication;
• Uneven dosing
Before you start using this medical device, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant;
• Are unable to consistently split pills evenly;
• Are using enteric-coated tablets, time-release medications, capsules, chemotherapy drugs, or any drug labeled as "do not crush, split, or chew;
• Have cognitive or dexterity issues
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. Drug interactions between the Pill Cutter/Splitter and other medicines may exist. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Accurate dosing during pregnancy is necessary for the safety of mother and child. Discuss how to split appropriate medicines effectively during pregnancy. Your doctor has to approve a drug for splitting. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. Accurate dosing is essential during breastfeeding. Uneven splitting can lead to inconsistent medication levels, which could affect both the mother and the infant. You can use a pill cutter when breastfeeding only if your doctor has approved both the medication and the splitting of the pill. Use this medical device precisely as your doctor prescribes. Wash your hands before using the device. Gather the pill cutter splitter and medication. Ensure the pill is suitable for splitting. Look for a score line (a line across the middle of the pill).
Clean the pill cutter. Make sure the pill cutter is clean and free of any residue from previous pills. Open the pill cutter. Place the pill in the holding area. If the pill has a score line, align it with the cutter's blade. This will help ensure an even split. Ensure the pill is stable and will not move when the lid is closed. Close the lid. Press down on the lid to engage the blade and cut the pill. Carefully open the lid. The pill should now be split into two pieces. Carefully remove the split pill halves. Use the divided pill immediately if possible. If you need to store the other half, place it in a clean, dry container, preferably the original medication bottle. It is generally not recommended to split pills far in advance of when they will be taken. After use, clean the pill cutter to prevent cross-contamination. Wash with warm, soapy water and dry thoroughly. Be aware that splitting pills can sometimes result in uneven doses. If you have concerns about accuracy, discuss alternative options with your doctor. The blade in a pill cutter is sharp. Handle it with care. Pill cutters are designed for splitting pills. Do not use them for any other purpose. Regularly inspect the pill cutter for any damage or wear. Replace it if necessary. Store this device at room temperature, away from humidity and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.