Here is a list of the medications that can impact swallowing and why this happens:
Medications that affect the smooth and striated muscles of the esophagus which are involved in swallowing may cause dysphagia.
Medications with anticholinergic or antimuscarinic effects.
Medications that cause dry mouth (xerostomia) may interfere with swallowing by impairing the person’s ability to move food.
* see also Antipsychotic/Neuroleptic medication list below
Local anaesthetics such as Novocain which is often used for dental work may temporarily cause a loss of sensation that may affect swallowing before it wears off.
Antipsychotic/ neuroleptic medications given for treatment of psychiatric disorders may affect swallowing as many of them produce dry mouth, and some can cause movement disorders which impact the muscles of the face and tongue that are involved in swallowing.
Antipsychotic/ neuroleptic medications
Medications that depress the Central Nervous System (CNS) can decrease awareness and voluntary muscle control that may affect swallowing.
Some medications can cause dysphagia because of injury to the esophagus caused by local irritation. This can happen because the person is in a reclining position shortly after taking the medication, or because an inadequate amount of fluid is taken with the medication. In both instances, the medications remain in the esophagus too long, potentially causing damage and affecting swallowing.
Drugs that may cause esophageal injury
Other medications such as high dose steroids and chemotherapeutic (anti-cancer) preparations may cause muscle wasting or damage to the esophagus and may suppress the immune system making the person susceptible to infection.
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