sodium fluoride

n.
A colorless crystalline salt, NaF, used in fluoridation of water, in treatment of tooth decay, and as an insecticide and a disinfectant.

A crystalline compound, NaF, soluble in water and very slightly soluble in ethanol; cubic; r.d. 2.56; m.p. 993°C; b.p. 1695°C. It occurs naturally as villiaumite and may be prepared by the reaction of sodium hydroxide or of sodium carbonate with hydrogen fluoride. The reaction of sodium fluoride with concentrated sulphuric acid may be used as a source of hydrogen fluoride. The compound is used in ceramic enamels and as a preservative agent for fermentation. It is highly toxic but in very dilute solution (less than 1 part per million) it is used in the fluoridation of water for the prevention of tooth decay on account of its ability to replace OH groups with F groups in the material of dental enamel.

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n
NaF

A white, odorless powder used in 2% aqueous solution and applied topically to teeth as a caries-preventing agent; used as 33% NaF in kaolin and glycerin as a desensitizing agent for hypersensitive dentin. In drinking water, one part per million of NaF is used as a caries-prophylactic substance.

Brand names: Flourigard®, Fluorinse®, Fluoritab®, Fluorodex®, Flura-Drops®, Flura-Tab®, Karidium®, Luride®, Pediaflor®, PreviDent®

Drug Forms:
• Sodium Fluoride oral solution (below)
• Sodium Fluoride tablets or chewable tablets
• Sodium Fluoride dental cream or gel
• Sodium Fluoride dental rinse

Español:
• Solución oral de fluoruro de sodio
• Tabletas o tabletas masticables de fluoruro de sodio
• Gel o crema dental de fluoruro de sodio
• Enjuague bucal de fluoruro de sodio

Sodium Fluoride oral solution

What is sodium fluoride oral solution?

SODIUM FLUORIDE (Pediaflor®, Luride®, Fluoritab®, Flura-Drops®, Karidium®) is a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and helps to prevent dental decay. Fluoride also helps to decrease sensitivity of the teeth. Fluoride, in small amounts, also helps maintain healthy bones. Most natural water supplies contain some fluoride and fluoride may be added to the water. Additional fluoride may be necessary in some cases. Generic sodium fluoride dental rinse is not available. Generic sodium fluoride oral solution is available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• arthritic joints
• stomach or intestinal disease
• kidney disease
• stained, mottled, or pitted teeth
• an unusual or allergic reaction to fluoride, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?

Sodium fluoride oral solution is taken by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Drop the solution directly into the mouth using the dropper provided, or add to fruit juice or food that does not contain calcium. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with sodium fluoride?

• aluminum salts
• calcium salts
• magnesium salts

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking sodium fluoride?

Do not take this solution unless you are sure you need extra fluoride. Ask your dentist or health care professional for advice, especially if you move to a new area where the amount of fluoride in the water may be different.

Do not take calcium supplements, or antacids containing calcium, aluminum, or magnesium, at the same time as sodium fluoride. There should be an interval of at least 2 hours to make sure the sodium fluoride works properly.

Do not use glass containers for fluoride solutions; fluoride can etch the glass.

If more than the recommended amount of the oral solution is accidently swallowed, contact a Poison Control Center immediately. Also, prolonged daily ingestion can cause abnormal tooth enamel. Enamel is the hard part on the outside of the tooth. Immediately report any signs of abnormal tooth color or staining or spotting of the teeth.

What side effects may I notice from taking sodium fluoride?

Recommended doses of sodium fluoride produce few side effects. Serious side effects can occur with overuse of sodium fluoride and include:
• aches and pains in the bones or joints
• black, tarry stools
• blood in vomit
• mottled or discolored teeth
• nausea, vomiting
• skin rash, itching
• sores in the mouth or on the lips
• stomach pain
• unusual weakness
Call your prescriber or health care professional for advice if you get any of these side effects.

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Last updated: 3/12/2004 6:16:00 PM

Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.

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