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 0.2% - DENTAL RINSE

(SO-dee-um FLOOR-ide)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Fluorinse, Nafrinse, Prevident

Uses

Sodium fluoride makes teeth more resistant to decay and bacteria that cause cavities. This medication is used to prevent cavities.

How To Use

This rinse is usually used just once a week immediately after brushing or flossing the teeth just before bedtime. To use, measure the prescribed amount usually 1 or 2 teaspoonfuls (5 or 10 ml), place it in your mouth and swish it around for at least one minute before spitting it out. Do not swallow this. Avoid eating, drinking or rinsing your mouth for at least 30 minutes after using this to enable the medication to have contact with the teeth.

Side Effects

Inform your doctor if you experience mouth or gum irritation while using this medication. If your teeth become stained or change color, notify your dentist. Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, diarrhea, headache or muscle twitches may occur if this medication is accidentally swallowed. If these symptoms occur, contact your doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you: have other illnesses, have allergies (especially to fluoride), require a low-salt diet, live in an area where the drinking water is fluoridated. This fluoride supplement is used when the drinking water contains low fluoride levels (less than 0.7 parts per million). This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy or while breast-feeding. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

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

Fluoride is found in tea, fluoridated water and fish eaten with bones such as sardines.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the 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 (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. As with all medications, keep out of the reach of children.