COMPARATIVE EFFECTS OF COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE ALLOPATHIC AND AYURVEDIC COUGH SYRUPS ON SALIVARY PH AMONG YOUNG ADULTS: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED CLINICAL TRIAL.
Main Article Content
Keywords
Cough syrup, Salivary pH, Sugar content, Allopathic cough syrup, Ayurvedic cough syrup, Dental caries
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Cough syrups, whether herbal or allopathic, are commonly sugar-based acidic liquids. These formulations have the potential to cause dental issues such as erosion of teeth, increased plaque attachment on tooth surfaces, and, subsequently, a higher incidence of dental caries. The aim of the present study is to compare and evaluate the effects of different commercially available cough syrups on the salivary pH of young adults.
AIM AND OBJECTIVES:
The primary goal of this study is to assess and contrast the impact of commercially accessible cough syrups, both those containing sugar and those without, on the salivary pH levels of young adults.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
In this randomized controlled clinical study, 60 participants were included, either prescribed cough syrups or self-medicating. The total number of 12 cough syrups were divided into 2 groups, Group A and Group B. Group A - sugar containing cough syrup, Group B - Sugar free cough syrup. Saliva samples were collected at four intervals: before consumption, immediately after consumption, and at 10 and 30 minutes post-consumption of the respective cough syrup. Salivary pH levels were assessed using a Vanira LI613 digital pH meter.
RESULTS
After the ingestion of cough syrup across all groups, there was an immediate decrease in salivary pH, followed by a gradual increase at 10- and 30-minute intervals. These changes were statistically significant (p<0.05). The salivary pH in sugar-containing cough syrup groups was lower at all time intervals compared to the sugarfree groups, and the salivary pH variations was dependent on the time factor, and was not influenced by the presence or absence of the sugar in the cough syrup or the medication type i.e. herbal or allopathic.
CONCLUSION:
In order to address potential future complications, it is crucial to increase awareness among the general public, healthcare professionals, and pharmaceutical vendors about the oral health hazards linked to extended use of cough syrup.
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