ALTERNATIVE PRODUCTS IN TOPICAL TREATMENT OF RADIATION INDUCED XEROSTOMIA: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

Xerostomia, a term used to characterize the sensation of dry mouth, it is one of the most common symptoms after radiotherapy treatment of the head and neck region, being also the most expensive, impacting the oral health and quality of life of these patients. We performed a systematic review to identify topical treatments of natural composition in patients with radiation induced xerostomia. Searches were carried out in electronic databases such as the databases consulted were Cochrane library, PubMed (MEDLINE) and Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Health Sciences – LILACS. The research was carried out from June to July 2022 the period admitted for the results were from 1990 to 2022. We included trials of topical interventions with natural composition such, medicinal mucilage, sprays, oils and chewing gums for the management of dry mouth symptom. Results: 6 studies fully met the desired criteria, totalizing 336 patients. The therapies based on natural products were compared with placebo or other treatments and the forms of presentation were spray, oil, medicinal mucilage, and gel. In general, there was an improvement in some signs and symptoms of xerostomia and the most described adverse effect was nausea. Natural composition products seem to be a good alternative therapy for the relief of xerostomia symptoms and their consistency and form of application seem to exert influence, as evidence is still scarce, more randomized and placebo-controlled clinical studies are needed.

Keywords: Xerostomia; Head and neck cancer; Treatment; Herbal; Radiotherapy.