Saliva substitutes

Generic name: saliva substitutes [ sa-LYE-va-SUB-sti-tutes ]
Brand names: Aquoral, Biotene Dry Mouth, Biotene Moisturizing Mouth Spray, Biotene Mouthwash, Biotene Oral Balance, ... show all 36 brands BocaSal, Caphosol, Dry Mouth Mouthwash, Moi-Stir, Mouth Kote, NeutraSal, Numoisyn, Oasis Moisturizing Mouth, Optimoist, Orajel Dry Mouth Moisturizing, Oral-B Moisturizing, SalivaMAX, Stoppers 4 Dry Mouth, XyliMelts, Glandosane Unflavored, Salivart, Xero-Lube, Glandosane Peppermint, Glandosane Lemon, Xerolube, AS Saliva Orthana, Luborant, Salivace, Saliveze, Bioxtra, Salivix, SST Saliva Stimulating, Aquae, Salinum, Biotene Dry Mouth Toothpaste, Biotene PBF Dry Mouth Toothpaste
Dosage forms: oral gel (-), oral lozenge (-), oral powder for reconstitution (-), oral solution (-), oral spray (-), ... show all 6 dosage forms oral tablet (-)
Drug class: Mouth and throat products

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 1, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is saliva substitutes?

Saliva substitutes are manmade forms of the mucus secretions normally produced in the human mouth. Saliva substitutes help to create artificial saliva when the body does not produce enough on its own.

Saliva substitutes are used to help relieve dryness and pain or discomfort in the mouth or throat that may be caused by certain disease conditions, medications, surgery, or chemotherapy and radiation treatments.

Saliva substitutes may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Saliva substitutes side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

There are many brands and forms of saliva substitutes available. Not all brands are listed on this leaflet. Follow all directions on your medicine label and package.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use saliva substitutes if you are allergic to any of the ingredients listed on the product package.

Ask a doctor before using saliva substitutes if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

How should I use saliva substitutes?

A saliva substitute is for use only in the mouth. Do not get it in your eyes.

Use your saliva substitute product exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Saliva substitutes work inside your mouth and are not meant to be swallowed.

To use the oral rinse or other liquid saliva substitutes, swish a small amount in your mouth for 30 seconds, then spit out.

The oral powder must be mixed with about 1 ounce of water before using it. Stir the mixture and use it right away, even if you need to swish 2 or 3 times to get the full amount. Do not save the mixture for later use.

Shake the oral spray gently before each use and spray directly into your mouth and onto your tongue.

The tablet or lozenge can be held in the mouth for long periods of time, even while you are sleeping. Some tablets are pressed onto to your tooth or gums to help hold them in place.

Saliva substitute gel, paste, or swabs may be applied directly onto the gums, tongue, teeth, or sides of the mouth. Follow all instructions carefully.

How often you use a saliva substitute may depend on your condition or your medication schedule.

In most cases, saliva substitutes are used 3 to 5 times per day or whenever your mouth feels dry and uncomfortable. When used during chemotherapy or radiation, you may need to use saliva substitutes up to 10 times per day beginning on or before the day of your treatment. Follow all dosing instructions very carefully.

Do not allow a child to use saliva substitutes without adult supervision.

Saliva substitutes may be only part of a complete treatment program that includes using other oral hygiene methods. Follow your doctor's instructions very closely.

Store your saliva substitute as directed on the product label. Avoid moisture, heat, and light.

Related/similar drugs

pilocarpine, chlorhexidine topical, Peridex, glycerin topical, sodium hyaluronate topical, Salagen, Periogard, Caphosol, Mouth Kote

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since saliva substitutes are used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are on a schedule, use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of a saliva substitute is not expected to be dangerous. Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 if anyone has accidentally swallowed large amounts of this product.

What should I avoid while taking saliva substitutes?

You may need to avoid eating or drinking anything for about 15 minutes after using saliva substitutes. Follow all directions on the label of the product you are using.

Rinse with water if the saliva substitute gets in your eyes.

What other drugs will affect saliva substitutes?

It is not likely that other drugs you take orally or inject will have an effect on saliva substitutes used in the mouth and not swallowed. But many drugs can interact with each other. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Copyright 1996-2024 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 3.01.