Fluoride

Fluoride is used to prevent tooth decay. It is taken up by teeth and helps to strengthen teeth, resist acid, and block the cavity-forming action of bacteria. Fluoride usually is prescribed for children and adults whose homes have water that is not fluoridated (already has fluoride added). This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Fluoride comes as a liquid, tablet, and chewable tablet to take by mouth. It usually is taken once daily. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take fluoride exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. The fluoride liquid may be taken straight from the bottle or mixed with cereal, fruit juice, or other foods. Use a dropper or an oral syringe to measure out your dose. Tablets may be dissolved in the mouth, chewed, or added to drinking water or fruit juice. Tablets also may be added to water for use in infant formulas or other food. Fluoride helps to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities; it is not a substitute for brushing or flossing.

<p></p> <p></p> <p></p> <p>Fluoride may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if this symptom is severe or does not go away:

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staining of teeth</li></ul></p> <p></p> <p>If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

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unusual increase in saliva</li>
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salty or soapy taste</li>
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stomach pain</li>
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upset stomach</li>
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vomiting</li>
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diarrhea</li>
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rash</li>
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weakness</li>
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tremor</li>
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seizures</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>

Before taking fluoride, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to fluoride, tartrazine (a yellow dye in some processed foods and drugs), or any other drugs. tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially vitamins. Do not take calcium, magnesium, or iron supplements while taking fluoride without checking with your doctor. tell your doctor if you are on a low-sodium or sodium-free diet.

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.