What is this medicine?
SODIUM FLUORIDE (SOE dee um FLOOR ide) is a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel. It helps to prevent dental decay and is also used as a fluoride supplement.
This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
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What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
- allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
- black, tarry stools
- burning mouth, sore tongue
- discolored teeth
- pain in the bones or joints
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
- diarrhea
- nausea, vomiting
- stomach pain
This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
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How should I use this medicine?
Take this medicine by mouth. Chew it completely or allow it to dissolve in the mouth before swallowing. Follow the directions on the prescription label. It is best to take after brushing the teeth at night. Do not eat or drink any dairy products within 1 hour of taking this medicine. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.
Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 6 months old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.
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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.
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What may interact with this medicine?
- antacids
- calcium salts
- dairy products
- magnesium salts
This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.
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What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Do not take this medicine 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 my be different.
Do not take calcium supplements, or antacids containing calcium, aluminum, or magnesium, at the same time as this medicine. There should be an interval of at least 2 hours to make sure this medicine works properly.
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What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
- drink water that has fluoride
- kidney disease
- stomach problems
- an unusual or allergic reaction to fluoride, tartrazine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
- pregnant or trying to get pregnant
- breast-feeding
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Can I stop taking the medication if I feel better?
As a general rule, you should always take your medications exactly as prescribed and do not change the dosage or stop taking the medication without first discussing it with your healthcare provider.
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I am on so many medications; do I have to take them all?
This is called polypharmacy—many different medications being used at the same time by one person. Sometimes, being on multiple medications is acceptable and appropriate but at other times it may be problematic. If you are receiving your medications from multiple physicians you need to ensure that they all know what medications you are taking. The best way to do this is to make a list of all the medications you are currently using, including all nutritional supplements, homeopathic remedies, vitamins and over-the-counter drugs (if possible, also include all the diseases you have been diagnosed with). Give a copy to every doctor who takes care of you so they have it on file, this way they can avoid duplicating medications and perhaps even try to consolidate some. After every doctor's visit remember to update the list accordingly. Also, as much as you possibly can, try to use the same pharmacy to fill all your prescriptions, this way any potential drug interactions can be caught and averted.
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