Evaluation of a mucoadhesive lipid-based bioerodable tablet compared with Biotène mouthwash for dry mouth relief--a pilot study.

Salivary gland impairment is a major problem that can result in hyposalivation and a decrease in quality of life. Causes for mouth dryness can be grossly classified into three major groups: iatrogenic, immunogenic, and metabolic. At present, insufficient therapies exist to ease morbidity in this growing number of affected individuals. A need for new products to relieve oral dryness is mandatory. The aim of this study was to evaluate a mucoadhesive lipid-based bioerodable tablet as a novel device to decrease signs and symptoms associated with mouth dryness. Twenty xerostomic patients were divided into two groups. In group 1, the mucoadhesive tablet was applied to the hard palate, while in group 2, Biotène mouthwash was applied and served as a control. Sialometry measurements, as well as a questionnaire assessing mouth dryness, were obtained before and after treatment. Application of the mucoadhesive tablets resulted in a significant reduction in the sensation of the mouth dryness (P = .016) compared to Biotène. Moreover, a 1.5-fold increase in unstimulated whole saliva flow was obtained after 30 minutes in the treatment group. A lipid-based mucoadhesive tablet has a beneficial role in reducing the sensation of dryness in patients with xerostomia.