Amlexanox

Why this is used

Amlexanox is used to treat ulcers of the mouth called aphthous ulcers or canker sores. It decreases the time ulcers take to heal. Because amlexanox decreases the healing time, it also decreases the pain you feel. This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor, dentist, or pharmacist for more information.

How to take it

Amlexanox comes as a beige-colored paste. Amlexanox should be used as soon as possible after noticing symptoms of an ulcer. Amlexanox is usually applied four times a day, following brushing and flossing after breakfast, lunch, dinner, and at bedtime. Squeeze 1/4 inch (0.6 centimeters) of the paste on your finger. With gentle pressure, dab amlexanox onto each ulcer in the mouth. Wash hands immediately after using amlexanox. Amlexanox is only used until the ulcer has healed, usually within 10 days. Contact your physician or dentist if significant healing has not occurred within 10 days. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor, dentist, or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use amlexanox exactly as directed. Do not use more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor or dentist.

Side effects

<p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>Amlexanox may cause side effects. Tell your doctor or dentist if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

<list list-type='plain' numbering='arabic'>
<li>
slight pain, stinging, or burning of the skin that comes and goes</li>
<li>
nausea</li>
<li>
diarrhea</li></ul></p> <p></p> <p>If you experience the following symptom, call your doctor or dentist immediately:

<ul>
<li>
rash</li></ul>If you experience a serious side effect, you or your doctor may send a report to the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program online [at <a href='http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch'>http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch</a>] or by phone [1-800-332-1088].</p>

Precautions

Before using amlexanox, tell your doctor or dentist and pharmacist if you are allergic to amlexanox or any other drugs. tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, including vitamins and herbal products.
Educational reference only — talk to a pharmacist or prescriber about Amlexanox.