This medication is used to prevent cavities. It makes
teeth stronger and more resistant to decay caused by acid and bacteria.
Talk to your dentist or doctor about the benefits and risks of this
product.
This medication is not recommended for use in infants
less than 6 months of age.
This medication is not recommended for use in areas
where the fluoride content in the water supply is greater than 0.6 parts
per million. See Notes section for more information.
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your
doctor/dentist, usually once daily.
The dosage is based on your age and the fluoride content
in your water supply.
If you are using the liquid form of this medication,
measure the dose carefully using the specially marked medicine dropper that
is provided. Drops may be swallowed directly, added to a small amount of
juice, or mixed with a small amount of food such as applesauce. Do not mix
with food containing milk or other dairy products.
If you are using the chewable form of this medication,
chew or dissolve it in the mouth before swallowing so that the teeth will
also absorb the fluoride. If you are using the lozenge, place the lozenge
in your mouth and allow it to dissolve. Take the chewable medication or
lozenge at bedtime after brushing your teeth or as directed by your
doctor/dentist. For best results, do not rinse your mouth, eat, or drink
for 30 minutes after taking these forms of the medication.
Take this medication 1 hour apart from products that
contain calcium, aluminum, or magnesium. Some examples include dairy
products (such as milk, yogurt), antacids, laxatives, and
vitamins/minerals. These products can bind with fluoride, preventing its
full absorption.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most
benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each
day.
Stomach upset may occur. If this effect lasts or gets
worse, tell your doctor/dentist or pharmacist promptly.
Tell your doctor/dentist right away if your teeth become
stained or pitted. This is often a result of too much
fluoride.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed
because your doctor or dentist has judged that the benefit to you is
greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do
not have serious side effects.
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare.
However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a
serious allergic reaction, including:
- rash
- itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat)
- severe dizziness
- trouble breathing
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If
you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor/dentist or
pharmacist.
In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at
www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about
side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at
1-866-234-2345.
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor/dentist
or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other
allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause
allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more
details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor/dentist
or pharmacist your medical history, especially of:
- mouth problems (such as sores, mucositis)
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about
all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription
drugs, and herbal products).
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this
medication.
This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your
doctor before breastfeeding.
See also How to Use section.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work
or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not
contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you
use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and
share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the
dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such
as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison
control center right away. US residents can call 1-800-222-1222. Canada
residents can call 1-844-764-7669. Symptoms of overdose may include:
burning in the mouth, sore tongue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, increased
saliva, stomach pain/cramping, muscle weakness, shaking,
seizures.
Do not share this medication with others.
Taking this medication does not replace good dental
habits. Continue to brush and floss your teeth regularly as directed by
your dentist, and have regular dental checkups.
Check the fluoride content of your water supply by
asking local town or city officials. Fluoride supplements are not necessary
if the fluoride content in the water supply is greater than 0.6 parts per
million. If your water supply changes or if you move, check with your
doctor or dentist to determine if extra fluoride is still
necessary.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next
dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch
up.
Store at room temperature away from heat and moisture.
Store the liquid form in the original plastic container. Do not store in
the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and
pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them
into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when
it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste
disposal company.