Why choose an effervescent tablet over a pill?

Confused about whether to take an effervescent or a pill? We break it down.

Scanning items on the supermarket shelf, you realise the product you need comes in two formats - one’s a pill, the other is an effervescent tablet. Both products claim to do the same thing, so which one should you choose?

What is an effervescent tablet?

First, it’s important to understand the difference between an effervescent tablet and a pill. Both can be in the form of a tablet, but it’s how they dissolve that’s different.

An effervescent tablet is a type of tablet that breaks up when you drop it in liquid like water or juice. The tablet completely dissolves in the liquid, the tablet’s ingredients are evenly dispersed in the liquid and you can then drink it like a standard drink.

Effervescent tablets exist for many products, including:

Prescription and over-the-counter medications
Vitamin and mineral supplements
Energy drinks
Sports drinks
Electrolyte drinks.

Pills, on the other hand, are hard capsules or tablets that don’t dissolve in water. You swallow pills and tablets with a glass of water, then they break down gradually in your stomach.

The amount of time it takes for your body to break down a pill can vary, depending on individual factors.

Why take an effervescent tablet over a pill?

Effervescent tablets are becoming a more popular choice in a variety of products for many reasons, including taste, convenience and personal preference. Here’s a look at the benefits of an effervescent.

Fast absorption

Effervescent tablets have already started dissolving by the time they reach your stomach, meaning they can be absorbed efficiently.

Pleasant taste

Many effervescent tablets have a nice fizzy flavour and are pleasant to drink. Pills are often flavourless.

Essential hydration

Taking an effervescent tablet can help you increase your liquid intake by dissolving in a full glass of water (most adults need 2 litres of water per day)

Useful for people with swallowing problems

Effervescent tablets are a good option for people who struggle to swallow pills.

Helpful for people with ‘pill fatigue’

You may feel ‘pill fatigue’ if you need to take too many pills. Some people stop taking their pills altogether as a result of having too many pills to take. If the multivitamin or product you need comes in an effervescent formula, that’s one less pill you have to swallow.

No measurement needed

Some powders need to be measured with spoons or scoops, then stirred and dissolved – and this all takes time. Effervescent tablets usually dissolve rapidly and you don’t need to worry about measuring the product.

Looking for an effervescent multivitamin? Try Berocca. With a unique combination of B vitamins and vitamin C, as well as calcium, magnesium and zinc, Berocca helps to reduce tiredness, enhance physical energy and increase performance.

No pills needed.