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Differences in salivary flow rates in elderly subjects using xerostomatic medications
R E Persson1, K T Izutsu, E L Treulove
1Department of Oral Medicine, Health Sciences Center, University of Washington, Seattle.
Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, and Oral Pathology
|July 1, 1991
Summary
Elderly individuals using medications that cause dry mouth (xerostomia) have significantly reduced salivary flow rates. This study highlights medication
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Oral Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Xerostomia, or dry mouth, is a common complaint among the elderly.
- Medications are a frequent cause of xerostomia, impacting oral health.
- Understanding the effect of xerostomia-inducing medications on salivary function is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of xerostomia-inducing medications on stimulated whole salivary flow rate (SWSFR) in elderly subjects.
- To compare SWSFR in elderly individuals using xerostomia-inducing medications versus controls.
- To identify common classes of xerostomia-inducing medications and their effect on salivary flow.
Main Methods:
- Measurement of stimulated whole salivary flow rate (SWSFR) in elderly participants.
- Categorization of participants based on the use of xerostomia-inducing medications.
- Comparison of SWSFR between medication users and a control group.
- Analysis of the correlation between the number of medications, specific drug classes, age, and SWSFR.
Main Results:
- SWSFR was significantly lower in elderly subjects using xerostomia-inducing medications compared to controls (0.94 vs 1.52 ml/min).
- The use of up to four different xerostomia-inducing medications did not lead to further significant reductions in SWSFR.
- Psychotropic and diuretic agents were the most common xerostomatic medications, with similar potency in reducing salivary flow.
- Medication use did not affect decayed, missing, or filled surface scores or unstimulated whole saliva pH.
- A weak positive correlation between age and SWSFR was observed, suggesting medication effects are more significant than aging.
Conclusions:
- Medication use is a significant factor reducing salivary flow in the elderly.
- While multiple medications did not worsen flow reduction, common classes like psychotropics and diuretics notably impact SWSFR.
- Salivary flow rate in the elderly is more influenced by medication than by age itself.