ANT KATZ

The kashrut department of the Beth Din has analysed an extensive range of the most commonly prescribed and used medications for use on Pesach. “The sheer number of different medications available makes it impossible to list each and every alternative,” they advise.

As a general rule creams and non-chewable pills may be used during Pesach for someone that is medically ill (even if it is not life-threatening) even if these pills contain Chametz. The reason is because the Chametz is not being eaten in its regular way, as well as appearing in an inedible form. 

Nevertheless, says the UOS, “we customarily try to avoid pills that contain Chametz if an alternative Chametz-free pill is available. If this is not possible, it is recommended that the pill should be swallowed, wrapped in a piece of lettuce or single ply tissue.“

For the convenience of SAJR Online users we have published the complete PESACH MEDICATIONS 2014/5774 list with details of what’s good, not good and what substitutes work. It is a PDF copy of an Excel spreadsheet so it can be downloaded, printed or sent to family and friends.

If a liquid medication (syrup) or chewable pill that contains Chametz is required (if it is not life-threatening), it is necessary to replace it with a non-chewable alternative (even if this non-chewable pill may contain Chametz).

Medicines which contain Kitniyot are permitted on Pesach.

“In all cases,” warns the Beth Din, “DO NOT MAKE ANY CHANGES to any of your normal prescribed medication (whether pills or liquids) without first consulting both your doctor and your Rabbi.”

Understanding the medicine list:

• Items marked as “KFP” are Kosher for Pesach and may be taken without any restrictions.
• Items marked “Chametz” – see above. Please note the difference between non-chewable pills and liquid medications
• Items which have been prescribed by a doctor and which are marked as “UNKNOWN” or do not appear on this list, may be taken if no suitable alternative is available. It is recommended that such tablets be swallowed, wrapped in a piece of lettuce or single ply tissue.
• “KITNIYOT” – are permitted as above
• Items marked “Y” (in “Dairy Content” column) have dairy content

For the convenience of Jewish Report Online users who wish to view the entire list of Pesach Medication, simply click here >>>PESACH MEDICATIONS 2014/5774.

3 MORE UOS DOCUMENTS ON SAJR:

PESACH SALE OF CHAMETZ 2014/5774
PESACH GUIDE 2014/5774
PESACH SALE OF CHAMETZ 2014/5774