SODIUM FLUORIDE - ORAL (Fluor-A-Day, Karidium, Luride, Pediaflor) side effects, medical uses, and drug interactions.

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GENERIC NAME: SODIUM FLUORIDE - ORAL (SO-dee-um FLOOR-ide)

BRAND NAME(S): Fluor-A-Day, Karidium, Luride, Pediaflor

USES: Sodium fluoride makes teeth more resistant to decay and bacteria that cause cavities. It is used to prevent tooth decay where the drinking water supply contains low levels of fluoride (less than 0.7 ppm).

HOW TO USE: If you are using the liquid form of this medication, it works best if you do not eat, drink, or rinse your mouth for 30 minutes after taking it. Liquid forms may be taken by mouth undiluted, or mixed with water or juice. Take as directed. If you are using the chewable form of this medication, it should be either chewed or dissolved in the mouth before swallowing (the surface of the teeth will absorb the fluoride). The best time to use the chewables is at bedtime after brushing. If you are using the regular tablet form of fluoride, it may be chewed, swallowed whole, dissolved in water or fruit juice or crushed and sprinkled on food (e.g., applesauce). Use as directed. If nausea occurs, you may take fluoride with food except those foods that contain calcium (e.g., dairy products). Calcium (including milk and dairy products), aluminum, and magnesium-containing products (e.g., certain antacids or laxatives) can decrease the absorption of fluoride, thereby decreasing its effectiveness. Take fluoride several hours apart from such products/foods.

SIDE EFFECTS: Most people can take this medication with minimal or no side effects. Stomach upset, rash or headache may occur. If teeth become mottled or stained, notify your dentist. This is often a result of too much fluoride. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: This drug should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy or while breast-feeding.