An investigation into the use of pilocarpine as a sialagogue in patients with radiation induced xerostomia.

Author: DaviesG R, FrydrychA M, HeywoodJ, Slack-SmithL M

Paper Details 
Original Abstract of the Article :
Radiation therapy to the head and neck region can be an effective form of treatment for malignancies. Unfortunately damage to salivary glands may occur. Treatment of resultant dry mouth is at present very poor. The purpose of this pilot study was to investigate whether pilocarpine dissolved in artif...See full text at original site
Dr.Camel IconDr.Camel's Paper Summary Blogラクダ博士について

ラクダ博士は、Health Journal が論文の内容を分かりやすく解説するために作成した架空のキャラクターです。
難解な医学論文を、専門知識のない方にも理解しやすいように、噛み砕いて説明することを目指しています。

* ラクダ博士による解説は、あくまで論文の要点をまとめたものであり、原論文の完全な代替となるものではありません。詳細な内容については、必ず原論文をご参照ください。
* ラクダ博士は架空のキャラクターであり、実際の医学研究者や医療従事者とは一切関係がありません。
* 解説の内容は Health Journal が独自に解釈・作成したものであり、原論文の著者または出版社の見解を反映するものではありません。


引用元:
https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1834-7819.2002.tb00337.x

データ提供:米国国立医学図書館(NLM)

Seeking Relief for Radiation-Induced Xerostomia

Radiation therapy is a powerful weapon against cancer, but it can have unintended side effects. This study investigates the potential of pilocarpine, a drug that stimulates saliva production, as a treatment for radiation-induced xerostomia (dry mouth), a common and uncomfortable consequence of radiation therapy to the head and neck.

The researchers conducted a pilot study to evaluate the effectiveness of pilocarpine administered in a mouth spray in patients experiencing radiation-induced xerostomia. The study aimed to determine if this approach could provide relief from dry mouth symptoms.

A Potential Solution for a Common Side Effect of Radiation Therapy

This study provides evidence that pilocarpine administered in a mouth spray may be a viable option for alleviating dry mouth symptoms associated with radiation therapy. While further research is needed, the results suggest that this approach could improve the quality of life for patients undergoing this treatment.

Addressing a Challenging Side Effect of Cancer Treatment

Xerostomia can significantly impact a patient's ability to eat, speak, and even sleep. This study offers hope for a more effective treatment for this troublesome side effect of radiation therapy.

Dr.Camel's Conclusion

Imagine a parched desert traveler finding a precious spring of water! This research explores a potential oasis for patients struggling with dry mouth after radiation therapy. Pilocarpine, when delivered in a mouth spray, may offer a much-needed reprieve from this common side effect.

Date :
  1. Date Completed 2003-01-21
  2. Date Revised 2019-09-01
Further Info :

Pubmed ID

12405466

DOI: Digital Object Identifier

10.1111/j.1834-7819.2002.tb00337.x

Related Literature

SNS
PICO Info
in preparation
Languages

English

Positive IndicatorAn AI analysis index that serves as a benchmark for how positive the results of the study are. Note that it is a benchmark and requires careful interpretation and consideration of different perspectives.

This site uses cookies. Visit our privacy policy page or click the link in any footer for more information and to change your preferences.