The management of xerostomia in patients on haemodialysis: comparison of artificial saliva and chewing gum

C.P. Bots, H.S. Brand, E.C.I. Veerman, M. Valentijn-Benz, B.M. van Amerongen, A. van Nieuw Amerongen, R.M. Valentijn, P.F. Vos, J.A. Bijlsma, P.D. Bezemer, P.M. ter Wee

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Abstract

Many patients on haemodialysis (HD) therapy suffer from a dry mouth and xerostomia. This can be relieved by mechanical and gustatory stimulation or palliative care. The aim of this crossover study was to investigate the effect and preferences of a sugar-free chewing gum (Freedent White) and a xanthan gum-based artificial saliva (Xialine) in the management of xerostomia in chronic HD patients. Sixty-five HD patients participated in a 6-week crossover trial. The artificial saliva was rated significantly lower than the chewing gum for effectiveness, taste and a global assessment. No preference differences were found for gender and age, although older subjects rated the artificial saliva with a higher mark. Thirty-nine subjects (60%) preferred chewing gum, 15% (n=10) preferred the artificial saliva. Therefore, both chewing gum and artificial saliva could play an important role in the palliative care of xerostomia in HD patients
Original languageUndefined/Unknown
Pages (from-to)202-207
JournalPalliative medicine
Volume19
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2005

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