Caphosol

Caphosol is a manmade form of the mucus secretions that are usually produced in the human mouth. This medicine helps to create artificial saliva when the body does not make enough on its own.

Caphosol is used to help relieve dryness and pain or discomfort in the mouth or throat that may be caused by certain diseases, medications, surgery, or chemotherapy and radiation treatments.

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

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

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

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

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 the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

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.

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

To use the oral rinse or other liquid Caphosol, 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, Caphosol 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 this medicine 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 Caphosol without adult supervision.

Caphosol 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.

Since Caphosol is used as needed, you might not have a dosing schedule. If you do have a schedule, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.

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

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

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

It is unlikely that other medications you take by mouth or inject will affect Caphosol when used in the mouth and not swallowed. However, many medications can interact with each other. Inform all your health care providers about all medicines you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.