Caphosol solution is a specialized oral rinse designed to address various conditions affecting the mouth and throat. It is a prescription medication primarily used to relieve symptoms associated with dry mouth and mouth sores. Caphosol works by moistening and lubricating the oral cavity, which can significantly improve comfort for individuals experiencing these symptoms.
This solution acts as an artificial saliva, providing relief when the body’s natural saliva production is insufficient. Its formulation helps to clean the mouth, making activities like drinking, chewing, and speaking more comfortable. The specific composition of Caphosol allows it to interact with the oral environment to promote a healthier mouth.
Understanding Caphosol Solution
Caphosol is an electrolyte solution that closely resembles human saliva in its composition. It is supplied as two separate aqueous solutions, Caphosol A (phosphate solution) and Caphosol B (calcium solution), mixed just before use. This combination creates a supersaturated solution containing calcium and phosphate ions.
These calcium and phosphate ions are naturally present in saliva, maintaining oral tissue health. When combined, the supersaturated solution helps restore the natural ionic balance within the mouth. This action aids in the remineralization and repair of hard and soft oral tissues, benefiting damaged mucosal lining. The balanced pH of Caphosol also helps neutralize the oral environment, which can be disrupted by certain medical treatments.
Primary Uses of Caphosol
Caphosol is primarily prescribed for oral mucositis, a painful side effect of cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Oral mucositis involves inflammation, painful sores, and ulceration of the mucous membranes lining the mouth. This condition can impact a patient’s quality of life, making eating, swallowing, and speaking difficult.
In patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation, Caphosol has been shown to reduce the severity and duration of oral mucositis. One study indicated that patients using Caphosol experienced nearly half the duration of oral mucositis and required significantly less opioid medication for pain relief.
Caphosol also relieves general dryness of the mouth and throat, known as xerostomia or hyposalivation. This includes dryness resulting from surgery, certain medications like antihistamines, or conditions such as Sjögren’s syndrome. By moisturizing and lubricating the oral cavity, Caphosol alleviates discomfort for patients with dry mouth.
Administering Caphosol Correctly
Caphosol comes in two separate sachets, Caphosol A and Caphosol B, which must be mixed immediately before use. Combine the contents of one sachet of Caphosol A and one sachet of Caphosol B in a clean glass.
After mixing, approximately half of the solution should be swished thoroughly in the mouth for about one minute, then spit out. The remaining half of the solution should then be used in the same manner. Avoid eating or drinking for at least 15 to 30 minutes after using Caphosol to allow the calcium and phosphate ions to work effectively on the oral tissues.
Frequency of use can vary depending on the condition and your healthcare provider’s instructions. For dry mouth relief, it is often recommended to use Caphosol 2 to 10 times per day. When used for mucositis during high-dose chemotherapy or radiation, the dosage typically starts at 4 doses per day from treatment onset and can be increased up to 10 times daily if pain is experienced.
Key Safety Information
Caphosol is generally well-tolerated, with few reported side effects. However, some individuals may experience temporary side effects such as taste alteration, mild mouth irritation, or slight nausea. These effects are usually temporary and subside with continued use.
Caphosol is intended for oral use only and should not be swallowed. If accidentally swallowed, adverse effects are not typically anticipated, but contact a healthcare provider for guidance. Individuals with known allergies or hypersensitivity to any of Caphosol’s ingredients should avoid its use.
Caphosol contains sodium, with approximately 71 mg per 30 mL dose. Patients on a sodium-restricted diet should consult their physician before using this product. Store Caphosol at room temperature, generally (15 to 30 degrees Celsius), and keep it out of reach of children and pets. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, tongue, or throat.