Why do some drugs require you to take them in an "upright position"?

Question

A friend of mine was taking the supplement Metamucil and on the container it says to take in an "upright position." Why would this be necessary? Doesn't your digestive system push food/liquid downwards anyways?

Answer 1

Hi

The main reason you might be advised to take some drugs in upright position and drink enough water is that some of these drugs cause irritation of the esophagus resulting into esophagitis, Even though your digestive track can push food and liquid down but if these drugs stay for few minutes in the esophagus, they can easily cause irritation and cause esophagitis(Irritation and resulting inflammation of the esophagus).  

Example of this drugs are

Aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve, others) - Analgesics

Antibiotics, such as tetracycline and doxycycline - Use in treatment of infection

Potassium chloride -Use in treatment of Potassium deficiency

Bisphosphonates, including alendronate (Fosamax) - Use in treatment for weak and brittle bones (osteoporosis)

Quinidine, which is used to treat heart problems

I hope I am able to clear the air!