Can Shujin Pills be swallowed whole?

Generally, Shujin Pills are not recommended to be swallowed whole. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Shujin Pill is a traditional Chinese medicine compound made from various herbs including Ephedra, powdered seeds of Strychnos nux-vomica (马钱子粉), Rhizoma Notopterygii (羌活), Radix Angelicae Pubescentis (独活), Cinnamon Twig (桂枝), Licorice, Homalomena occulta (千年健), Achyranthes Root (牛膝), Frankincense, and Myrrh, among others. It is primarily used for dispelling wind-dampness, relaxing tendons, promoting blood circulation, relieving pain, and reducing swelling. It is commonly prescribed for conditions such as cold-damp bi syndrome, numbness in the limbs, and pain in the muscles and bones. Due to the relatively large size of the pill, swallowing it whole may cause it to become lodged in the throat, making it difficult to swallow, particularly in younger individuals. In severe cases, it may even block the trachea and cause choking. Therefore, to ensure safe medication use, swallowing the pill whole is not advised.

The correct way to take Shujin Pills is to chew the pill thoroughly before swallowing, or divide it into smaller portions and take it with warm water. Additionally, it should be noted that the Strychnos nux-vomica (马钱子) component of the pill has certain toxic properties. Patients should avoid long-term or excessive use to prevent harm to the body. Pregnant women, athletes, and individuals allergic to this product must strictly avoid its use. Extra caution should be exercised when administering it to children, elderly individuals, and patients with impaired liver or kidney function.

Prior to taking Shujin Pills, it is essential to carefully read the drug's instruction leaflet. If there are still questions regarding the method of administration, it is advisable to consult a physician or pharmacist to ensure safe and effective medication use.