Drug-induced oesophageal injury (pill-induced oesophagitis) is a relatively rare but clinically significant complication of pharmacotherapy. The pathogenesis of oesophageal mucosal injury is associated with direct and prolonged contact of medication with the mucosal surface, leading to local irritation, ulceration, and necrosis. The most commonly implicated agents include antibiotics (particularly tetracyclines), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, bisphosphonates, and potassium preparations. Clinical manifestations are non-specific (typically retrosternal pain, odynophagia, and dysphagia), which may delay accurate diagnosis. Drawing on two clinical cases with differing courses, this paper reviews the recent literature, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate therapeutic management. Improved patient education regarding the correct use of medication, together with increased physicians’ awareness of the risk of drug-induced oesophageal injury, may reduce its incidence, facilitate earlier diagnosis, and limit the risk of severe clinical complications.

drug-induced oesophageal injury, pill-induced oesophageal stricture, oesophageal ulceration