Treatment of the oesophagus with local steroids

Locally acting steroid preparations work directly on the lining of the oesophagus and block several stages of the inflammatory process. They are usually well tolerated because they are rapidly inactivated in the liver and only small amounts of steroid actually get to other parts of the body via the bloodstream.

In clinical studies, roughly 50% (in one study up to 85%) of patients experience a reduction of inflammation and improvement of symptoms.

Your doctor will explain your medication to you and discuss with you the optimum time you need to take it.

The most common side effects are fungal infections (Candida) of the mouth and/or throat and/or the oesophagus. These are usually mild and treated with antifungal medication.