Sialagogue

Sialagogue (also known as ptyalagogue) is a substance that promotes the flow or secretion of saliva. These substances can be found in various foods and medications. Sialagogues are often used in medicine to help manage dry mouth conditions, such as xerostomia, or to stimulate saliva production during certain diagnostic procedures.

Etymology

The term "sialagogue" comes from the Greek words "sialon" (saliva) and "agogos" (leading). Similarly, "ptyalagogue" is derived from "ptyalon" (saliva) and "agogos".

Types of Sialagogues

Sialagogues can be classified into two main types: pharmaceutical sialagogues and natural sialagogues.

Pharmaceutical Sialagogues

Pharmaceutical sialagogues are medications that are specifically designed to stimulate saliva production. They are often prescribed to patients suffering from conditions that cause dry mouth, such as Sjögren's syndrome, or to patients undergoing treatments that can reduce saliva production, such as radiation therapy for head and neck cancers. Examples of pharmaceutical sialagogues include pilocarpine and cevimeline.

Natural Sialagogues

Natural sialagogues are substances found in certain foods and drinks that can stimulate saliva production. These include sour or spicy foods, as well as certain fruits and vegetables. Chewing gum and sucking on hard candies can also act as natural sialagogues by mechanically stimulating saliva production.

Uses in Medicine

In medicine, sialagogues are used to manage conditions that cause dry mouth, such as Sjögren's syndrome, diabetes, and side effects from certain medications. They can also be used to stimulate saliva production during certain diagnostic procedures, such as sialometry, which measures the flow rate of saliva.

Side Effects

While sialagogues can be beneficial in managing dry mouth conditions, they can also have side effects. These can include sweating, nausea, increased urination, and flushing. It is important for patients to discuss these potential side effects with their healthcare provider before starting treatment with a sialagogue.

See Also

• Saliva
• Xerostomia
• Sjögren's syndrome
• Pilocarpine
• Cevimeline