A study has shown that Xeros dentaid^® moisturising gel is effective for the treatment of dry mouth in polymedicated patients.

INTRODUCTION

Xerostomia is a very common problem, with a negative impact on patients’ quality of life. It mostly affects the elderly and is associated with various diseases and especially with the intake of drugs. There is currently no effective treatment for this condition. Salivary substitutes are palliative agents that relieve the discomfort of xerostomia by temporarily wetting the oral mucosa, especially in cases that do not respond to sialogogues.

AIM

The aim of this study is to assess the efficacy of Xeros dentaid^® moisturising gel in the relief of patients’ sensation of dry mouth in cases of xerostomia and hyposialia due mainly to the intake of drugs.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

One hundred (100) patients with dry mouth were studied. For their medical history, they were given a VAS test (Pai et al., 2001) and a xerostomia quality of life survey (Fleming, 1973), and salivary flow rate (SFR) was measured, both unstimulated and stimulated (Modified Sreebny Technique, Fox 1997). Patients were randomly assigned to two groups, one receiving treatment with Xeros dentaid^® moisturising gel and the other receiving a placebo, without the patient or the investigator knowing which was being given (double-blind). Clinical variables were again measured after two weeks of treatment.

RESULTS

In the group receiving treatment, all symptoms associated with dry mouth showed greater improvement compared with the placebo group. The difference was statistically significant for dryness of the mouth, throat, tongue and lips, and for the need to drink water.

CONCLUSION

Xeros dentaid^® moisturising gel is effective in the symptomatic treatment of xerostomia in patients taking medication.