Yes, swallowing sublingual tablets can make a difference in how the medication is absorbed and its effectiveness. Sublingual tablets are designed to be dissolved and absorbed under the tongue (sublingually) rather than being swallowed like regular oral tablets.
When you place a sublingual tablet under your tongue, the medication is absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the thin tissues and blood vessels in the mouth. This route of administration allows the medication to bypass the digestive system and liver, leading to faster onset of action and often greater bioavailability (the amount of the medication that reaches the bloodstream).
However, if you swallow a sublingual tablet instead of allowing it to dissolve under your tongue, it will go through the usual digestive process. The medication will be subjected to breakdown by stomach acid and enzymes, and some of it may be metabolized by the liver before reaching the bloodstream. As a result, swallowing a sublingual tablet may reduce its effectiveness and delay the onset of action.
If you are prescribed a sublingual tablet, it's crucial to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider. If you are having difficulty taking medications sublingually, let your healthcare provider know so that they can explore alternative options or formulations that may be more suitable for you. Never alter the way you take medications without consulting your doctor or pharmacist first.