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Harmful Effects of Medicines on the Adult Digestive System |
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Part 2: The Esophagus
Irritation
Some people have difficulty swallowing medicines in tablet or capsule form. Tablets or capsules that stay in the esophagus may release chemicals that irritate the lining of the esophagus. The irritation may cause ulcers, bleeding, perforation (a hole or tear), and strictures (narrowing) of the esophagus. The risk of pill-induced injuries to the esophagus increases in persons with conditions involving the esophagus, such as strictures, scleroderma (hardening of the skin), achalasia (irregular muscle activity of the esophagus, which delays the passage of food), and stroke.
Some medicines can cause ulcers when they become lodged in the esophagus. These medicines include aspirin, several antibiotics such as tetracycline, quinidine, potassium chloride, vitamin C, and iron.
Warning signs
- Pain when swallowing food or liquid.
- Feeling of a tablet or capsule "stuck" in the throat.
- Dull, aching pain in the chest or shoulder after taking medicines.
Precautions
- Swallow tablets or capsules while you are in an upright or sitting position.
- Before taking a tablet or capsule, swallow several sips of liquid to lubricate the throat, then swallow the tablet or capsule with at least a full glass (8 ounces) of liquid.
- Do not lie down immediately after taking medicines to ensure that the pills pass through the esophagus into the stomach.
- Tell your doctor if painful swallowing continues or if pills continue to stick in the throat.
Esophageal Reflux
The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle is between the esophagus and the stomach. The muscle allows the passage of food into the stomach after swallowing. Certain medicines interfere with the action of the sphincter muscle, which increases the likelihood of backup or reflux of the highly acidic contents of the stomach into the esophagus.
Medicines that can cause esophageal reflux include nitrates, theophylline, calcium channel blockers, anticholinergics, and birth control pills.
Warning signs
- Heartburn or indigestion.
- Sensation of food coming back up into the throat.
Precautions
- Avoid foods and beverages that may worsen reflux, including coffee, alcohol, chocolate, and fried or fatty foods.
- Cut down on, or preferably quit, smoking.
- Do not lie down immediately after eating.
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Information taken from the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse
2 Information Way
Bethesda, MD 20892-3570
National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse
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