What type of medication can lead to pill esophagitis?

Pill esophagitis often occurs when certain medications damage the esophageal mucosa, leading to inflammation and irritation. Among the medications listed, antibiotics are well-known for this side effect, primarily when they are taken without sufficient water, which can cause the pill to adhere to the esophagus and result in localized irritation.

Antibiotics such as doxycycline and tetracycline have been specifically implicated in cases of pill esophagitis. This happens because they can become trapped in the esophagus, especially if taken in a supine position or without adequate fluid intake, leading to inflammation and potential ulceration of the esophageal lining.

Other medication classes, while they may have numerous side effects, are not commonly associated with causing esophagitis in this manner as frequently as antibiotics. For example, beta blockers and antihypertensives typically do not present this risk, and though some antidepressants can contribute to esophageal symptoms, they are less commonly reported in terms of causing pill esophagitis. Therefore, the association between antibiotics and pill esophagitis is particularly significant, making them the primary group to consider concerning this condition.