Why, oh why, has accessing a CR2032 lithium battery become as complex as deciphering Morse code?

As if the extraction challenge weren’t enough, they’ve added a bitter coating to deter the adventurous kiddos from giving it a taste test. While I champion the safety-first approach, I’m left scratching my head when the same layer seems to revolt against some of my devices, including my beloved AirTags.

Ironically, there’s a quirky remedy to this. A dab of isopropyl alcohol or a swipe with a wet paper towel revives the battery’s spirit by washing off the bitter coating. And, in my moment of curiosity, I gave it a lick. It’s bitter, all right, but hardly the worst thing on the flavor spectrum.

Now, let’s shift gears to Imodium A-D soft gels, which come with their own catalog of woe. Because some folks have discovered that abusing these gels in high dosages produces opioid-like effects, there’s a federal restriction on the number you can buy at once.

In addition, the gel caps aren’t sold in bottles anymore but in blister packs that test my patience. The elaborate ritual to access just one gel cap feels like an intricate dance sequence. And I’m no Fred Astaire.

On the brighter side, the liquid version of Imodium is refreshingly user-friendly. Pop, pour, and done.

I’ll take a moment to mention a longstanding beef over the presence of combination prescription tablets with codeine and acetaminophen.

I’m one of those conspiracy-minded folks who think liver-toxic acetaminophen in the combo is less for the convenience of having both medications in one tablet and more for deterring those inclined to pop multiple pills recreationally. Why is this a deterrent? Because there’s a risk of destroying your liver with high doses of acetaminophen. I see no reason codeine and acetaminophen can’t be prescribed as separate medications.

To wrap up, while safety is paramount, there must be a middle ground. If using everyday items becomes a Herculean task, it’s time for creative rethinking.

Until then, you’ll find me here, wrestling with a battery pack, yearning for the days of more straightforward access.