Sodium Fluoride Oral drops, solution Health Article

Generic name(s):

Sodium Fluoride Oral drops, solution

Brand name(s):

Altaflor, Ethedent Chewable, Fluor-A-Day, Fluorabon, Fluoritab, Fluorodex, Flura-Drops, Flura-Loz, Flura-Tab, Karidium, Lozi-Flur, Luride, Luride-SF, Nafrinse, Pediaflor Drops, Pharmaflur, Pharmaflur 1.1, Sodium Fluoride

What is this medicine?

SODIUM FLUORIDE (SOE dee um FLOOR ide) is a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and helps to prevent dental decay. It is also used as a fluoride supplement.

This mineral may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• drinking water that has fluoride
• stomach or intestine disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to fluoride, tartrazine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Drop the solution directly into the mouth using the dropper provided. It is best to take after brushing the teeth at night. Do not eat or drink any dairy products within 1 hour of taking this medicine. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 6 months old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medicine?

• antacids
• calcium
• dairy products
• magnesium

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Do not take this medicine unless you are sure you need extra fluoride. Ask your dentist or health care professional for advice, especially if you move to a new area where the amount of fluoride my be different.

Do not take calcium supplements, or antacids containing calcium, aluminum, or magnesium, at the same time as this medicine. There should be an interval of at least 2 hours to make sure this medicine works properly.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• black, tarry stools
• burning mouth, sore tongue
• discolored teeth
• pain in the bones or joints

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• diarrhea
• nausea, vomiting
• stomach pain

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.