Oesophageal Mucosal Changes Induced by Drugs

Commonly used antibiotics such s doxycyclin anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin, ibuprofen, and others such as potassium salts, even in therapeutic doses, can cause oesophagitis. We have examined 20 patients with a recent history of taking drugs and in whom symptoms such as retrosternal burning, odynephagia, dysphagia and haemotemesis suggested oesophagitis. Eighteen patients had endoscopic features of oesophagitis involving the mid and lower oesophagus. Seven patients had associated oesophageal ulcers. Thus, 90% of symptomatic patients showed mucosal injury. Patients should therefore be advised to take their medications with sufficient Quantities of water and avoid taking the medications immediately before bedtime.