When A Pill Gets Stuck
— Hazel, Canada Pills can get stuck when swallowed and cause significant problems through mechanisms that are not entirely understood. Some compounds, including medications that treat osteoporosis (Fosamax [alendronate], for example) are very irritating to the esophagus, and people taking these drugs are always instructed to sit upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the dose. This is because the medication can cause a problem known as esophagitis — inflammation of the esophagus that can lead to serious complications, including pain and bleeding....