Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

SODIUM FLUORIDE - ORAL

(SO-dee-um FLOOR-ide)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Fluor-A-Day, Karidium, Luride, Pediaflor

Uses

Sodium fluoride makes teeth more resistant to decay and bacteria that cause cavities. It is used to prevent tooth decay where the drinking water supply contains low levels of fluoride (less than 0.7 ppm).

How To Use

If you are using the liquid form of this medication, it works best if you do not eat, drink, or rinse your mouth for 30 minutes after taking it. Liquid forms may be taken by mouth undiluted, or mixed with water or juice. Take as directed. If you are using the chewable form of this medication, it should be either chewed or dissolved in the mouth before swallowing (the surface of the teeth will absorb the fluoride). The best time to use the chewables is at bedtime after brushing. If you are using the regular tablet form of fluoride, it may be chewed, swallowed whole, dissolved in water or fruit juice or crushed and sprinkled on food (e.g., applesauce). Use as directed. If nausea occurs, you may take fluoride with food except those foods that contain calcium (e.g., dairy products). Calcium (including milk and dairy products), aluminum, and magnesium-containing products (e.g., certain antacids or laxatives) can decrease the absorption of fluoride, thereby decreasing its effectiveness. Take fluoride several hours apart from such products/foods.

Side Effects

Most people can take this medication with minimal or no side effects. Stomach upset, rash or headache may occur. If teeth become mottled or stained, notify your dentist. This is often a result of too much fluoride. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

This drug should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy or while breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include increased drooling; nausea; stomach pain; vomiting; diarrhea; muscle weakness; shaking; seizures; paleness of the skin; weak, fast heartbeat; shallow, rapid breathing; and extreme thirst.

Notes

It is important to keep this and all medications out of the reach of children. Accidental ingestion of large amounts of fluoride can cause nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. Never refer to medicine as candy. Check the fluoride content of the drinking water in your area by asking local city or town officials. If your water supply changes ask your doctor or dentist if fluoride supplements should be continued. Fluoride supplements are used when the water contains less than 0.7 ppm.

Missed Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and heat. Do not store in the bathroom. Store the liquid form in the original plastic container and not in glass.