| Popis: |
Irreversible hyposalivation is a common sequela of Sjögren's syndrome and may lead to a decreased quality of the patient's life. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and therapeutic value of mucin-containing lozenges in reducing patients' complaints of hyposalivation. In a double-blind crossover trial in 42 patients with Sjögren's syndrome, the efficacy and therapeutic value of both a mucin-containing and placebo lozenge were assessed by means of self-administered questionnaires, which had to be completed before and after the use of each type of lozenge for a period of 2 weeks. Seventy-six percent of the patients preferred the mucin lozenge, 10% preferred the placebo, and 14% had no preference. In reducing patients' complaints, sucking the mucin lozenge resulted in a larger improvement of the total pattern of complaints and the sensation of oral dryness, and in a longer moistening of the oral cavity than the placebo. Oral functioning was improved after the use of the placebo, and the patients reported the taste of the placebo to be better than the mucin lozenge. From the responses it was concluded that the use of the mucin lozenges can be recommended in the treatment of oral symptoms of xerostomia. |
