[ comparison between the effects of two saliva stimuli and ordinary chewing gums on xerostomia in hemodialysis patients]

ABSTRACT

One of the most important side effects of frequent hemodialysis is xerostomia. Therefore, this study compared saliva secretion caused by a specific saliva stimulant chewing gum [Bioten] with an ordinary sugar free one [Orbit] on hemodialysis patients. This study was a clinical, double-blinded cross-over study. Thirty volunteer hemodialysis patients of two dialysis centers in Isfahan were randomly classified into two groups. In the first period of 14 days, each group was given one brand of chewing gum [Biotene or Orbit] to chew. Three gums a day of each brand were given to each group to chew for at least 10 minutes, while the other group was given the other brand. After a one- week-washout period in between, the second 14 days period was accomplished by changing the brands of chewing gums given to each group. Before the beginning of the study and after each period, the secreted saliva was measured. The findings were statistically analyzed using the t test and Wilcoxon test. Chewing each kind led to a considerable increase in saliva secretion and achieved patient satisfaction [p<0.05] while the efficacy of Bioten was significantly higher [p<0.001]. Regarding the patients' overall satisfaction about the effect of the chewing gums on reducing xerostomia, most patients chose Bioten [p<001]. Both kinds of chewing gums were effective in increasing saliva secretion. However, the effect of Bioten was more significant