We all know that medicine is supposed to make us feel better, but sometimes it can also make us feel worse. Especially when it comes to the taste. Some medicines are so bitter, sour, or disgusting that they make us gag, spit, or even vomit. While we might tolerate the bad taste for the sake of our health, we can’t help but wonder why some medicines have to taste so awful.
10. Metformin
Metformin is a common medication used to treat type 2 diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome. It helps lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. However, it also has a notorious side effect: a fishy smell and taste. Many users have complained that metformin smells like rotten fish or seaweed, and tastes even worse. Some have described it as metallic, bitter, or acidic. The smell and taste can linger in the mouth for hours, making it hard to eat or drink anything else.
9. Clindamycin
Clindamycin is an antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, such as acne, pneumonia, and dental abscesses. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria and preventing them from spreading. However, it also has a horrible smell and taste that many users find unbearable. Clindamycin smells like garbage, sewage, or rotten eggs, and tastes like it too. Even if it is flavored or mixed with something else, the smell and taste can still be detected and cause nausea or vomiting.
8. Robitussin
Robitussin is a popular cough syrup that contains dextromethorphan and guaifenesin. It helps relieve coughs, chest congestion, and mucus buildup. However, it also has a very unpleasant taste that many users dread. Robitussin tastes like artificial cherry mixed with alcohol and medicine. It has a thick and syrupy texture that coats the mouth and throat, making it hard to swallow or spit out. Some users have reported that robitussin makes them gag or choke.
7. Castor Oil
Castor oil is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries for various purposes, such as laxative, moisturizer, and anti-inflammatory. It is derived from the seeds of the castor plant and has a pale yellow color and a mild odor. However, it also has a very nasty taste that many users find repulsive. Castor oil tastes like oily dirt or wax. It has a thick and sticky consistency that sticks to the mouth and teeth, making it hard to wash away.
6. Prednisone
Prednisone is a steroid medication used to treat various inflammatory conditions, such as asthma, arthritis, and allergies. It works by suppressing the immune system and reducing inflammation and swelling. However, it also has a very bitter taste that many users find intolerable. Prednisone tastes like metal or chemicals. It has a powdery texture that dissolves quickly in the mouth, leaving a bitter aftertaste that can last for hours.
5. Augmentin
Augmentin is an antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, such as sinusitis, bronchitis, and ear infections. It contains amoxicillin and clavulanate potassium, which work together to kill bacteria and prevent them from becoming resistant. However, it also has a very sour taste that many users find disgusting. Augmentin tastes like vinegar or lemon juice. It has a liquid or chewable form that can cause a burning sensation in the mouth or throat.
4. Pepto-Bismol
Pepto-Bismol is a well-known over-the-counter medication used to treat various digestive issues, such as diarrhea, nausea, heartburn, and indigestion. It contains bismuth subsalicylate, which works by coating the stomach lining and reducing inflammation and irritation. However, it also has a very weird taste that many users find unappealing. Pepto-Bismol tastes like chalk or clay. It has a pink color and a thick consistency that can leave a chalky residue in the mouth.
3. Colyte
Colyte is a prescription medication used to prepare the bowel for colonoscopy or other procedures. It contains polyethylene glycol and electrolytes, which work by flushing out the colon and clearing the stool. However, it also has a very foul taste that many users find unbearable. Colyte tastes like salt water or bleach. It has a clear or yellow color and a watery consistency that can cause gagging or vomiting.
2. Liquid Potassium
Liquid potassium is a supplement used to treat or prevent low levels of potassium in the blood, which can cause muscle weakness, cramps, or irregular heartbeat. It contains potassium chloride, which works by restoring the normal balance of potassium in the body. However, it also has a very harsh taste that many users find horrible. Liquid potassium tastes like fire or acid. It has a clear or orange color and a liquid form that can cause a burning sensation in the mouth, throat, or stomach.
1. Nystatin
Nystatin is an antifungal medication used to treat oral thrush, a yeast infection that causes white patches and soreness in the mouth. It contains nystatin, which works by killing the fungus and preventing it from growing. However, it also has a very vile taste that many users find atrocious. Nystatin tastes like mold or dirt. It has a yellow color and a liquid or lozenge form that can cause a bitter or sour aftertaste that can last for days.