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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Have Thalassemia, Been On Iron Supplements. Should I Not Lie Down After Eating?

I have thalessmia and my Doctor wants me to take iron pills even though they are really not helping. I just got my prescription and it says not to lay down for 30 mins after taking. I ve been taking iron for months and never say that precaution on the label. Can you explain why I can t lay down after this medication . Thanks
Mon, 28 Jan 2013
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Radiologist,  's  Response
Hi,
Some persons have difficulty swallowing tablets or capsules, or sometimes take medications without liquid. Tablets or capsules that stay in the esophagus may release chemicals that can irritate the lining of the esophagus. This may cause ulcers, bleeding, perforation, and narrowing (strictures) of the esophagus.Also,Iron may interfere with the action of the sphincter muscle, located between the esophagus and stomach. This muscle allows the passage of food into the stomach after swallowing. This can increase the chances of reflux, or backup of the stomach's acidic contents into the esophagus. That's,the reason why it's better not to lay down on bed for about 30 minutes after taking Iron.
Wish you Best of your Health.
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Have Thalassemia, Been On Iron Supplements. Should I Not Lie Down After Eating?

Hi, Some persons have difficulty swallowing tablets or capsules, or sometimes take medications without liquid. Tablets or capsules that stay in the esophagus may release chemicals that can irritate the lining of the esophagus. This may cause ulcers, bleeding, perforation, and narrowing (strictures) of the esophagus.Also,Iron may interfere with the action of the sphincter muscle, located between the esophagus and stomach. This muscle allows the passage of food into the stomach after swallowing. This can increase the chances of reflux, or backup of the stomach s acidic contents into the esophagus. That s,the reason why it s better not to lay down on bed for about 30 minutes after taking Iron. Wish you Best of your Health.