Compositions and methods to avoid the gag reflex to enable swallowing of pills, by applying an edible coating to the pill that generates bubbles, so that the bubbles prevent direct contact of the pill with the back of the mouth, thereby avoiding the gag reflex. Preferably the coating generates bubbles from an acid-base reaction, from compressed bubbles entrapped in hard candy, or from any other manner for creating fizzing, effervescent or popping confectionery or other food products. Optionally the coating can have a strong taste, such as by being sour, to distract away from the gag reflex. Optionally, a time release envelope is provided to delay bubbling or to block atmospheric humidity.
