SODIUM FLUORIDE (SOE dee um FLOOR ide) is a mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and helps to prevent dental decay. It is also used as a fluoride supplement. This mineral may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Drink water that has fluoride
Stomach or intestine disease
An unusual or allergic reaction to fluoride, tartrazine, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
Breast-feeding
How should I use this medication?
Take this supplement by mouth. Chew it completely or allow this supplement to dissolve in the mouth. 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 supplement. Take your supplement at regular intervals. Do not take your supplement more often than directed.
Talk to your care team about the use of this supplement in children. While this supplement may be prescribed for children as young as 6 months old for selected conditions, precautions do apply.
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 may interact with this medication?
Antacids
Calcium salts
Dairy products
Magnesium salts
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
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
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Do not take these tablets unless you are sure you need extra fluoride. Ask your dentist or care team for advice, especially if you move to a new area where the amount of fluoride may be different.
Do not take calcium supplements, or antacids containing calcium, aluminum, or magnesium, at the same time as this supplement. There should be an interval of at least 2 hours to make sure this supplement works properly.
Where should I keep my medication?
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused supplement after the expiration date.
K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.
This information is educational only and should not be construed as specific instructions for individual patients nor as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk to your health care provider or pharmacist about the information and instructions. K Health assumes no liability for any use or reliance on this information.