Clinical Evaluation of Spray to Alleviate Symptoms of Xerostomia (Dry Mouth)

Abstract

The use of a new spray designed to alleviate xerostomia symptoms was evaluated in the clinical setting.Two kinds of spray were compared,one of them containing 0.1% sodium hyaluronate (HA) and the other no HA.The other ingredients of the 2 sprays were 0.1% sodium alginate (ALG),0.3% of a commercial bitter-masking powder made from lecithin (Benecoat BMI-40)and 0.08% lemon essence.Both sprays were stored under various conditions for various periods,and the microbial enumeration test was conducted for some storage conditions.We also prepared a questionnaire for patients based on the literature and consultation with a dentist to score their xerostomia symptoms.
The taste,smell,degree of irritation and texture of the 2 sprays were evaluated by 21 oral surgery outpatients complaining of xerostomia.Eighteen of the 21 patients completed the questionnaire before and after using one of the sprays for 7 days.The storage conditions were set at 14 days at room temperature or in a refrigerator.The questionnaire consisted of 15 items relating to xerostomia symtoms,5 to ADL and 2 items to QOL.There was an improvement in the xerostomia symptomrelated item of“drink water frequently,carry water around”for both patients using the 0.1% HA spray and the one not containing HA.This was attributed to the effect of ALG on mucous membranes.On examining total scores by underlying disease,improvement was noted for patients with xerostomia as a complication of oral ulcer,glossitis,glossodynia or lichen planus.The 2 sprays may therefore be effective in alleviating symptoms of xerostomia.