Fluoride

Generic name: Fluoride
Drug class: Minerals and electrolytes

Usage of Fluoride

Fluoride is a substance that strengthens tooth enamel, which helps prevent dental cavities.

Fluoride is used to prevent tooth decay in people whose drinking water contains low levels of fluoride (less than 0.6 parts per million).

Fluoride may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Fluoride side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Fluoride may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

very upset stomach;

nausea and vomiting; or

staining, pitting, or any other changes in the appearance of your teeth.

Less serious side effects may be more likely, and you may have none at all.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before taking Fluoride

You should not use fluoride if the level of fluoride in your drinking water is greater than 0.6 parts per million (ppm).

To determine the amount of fluoride in your water supply, you may contact your local water company. You may also get information about water fluoride content throughout the United States from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Tell your dentist or doctor if:

you have ever had sores or ulcers in your mouth; or

you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

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Warnings

You should not use fluoride if the level of fluoride in your drinking water is greater than 0.6 parts per million (ppm).

Carefully follow all dosing instructions when giving fluoride to a child.

What other drugs will affect Fluoride

Some medicines can make fluoride much less effective when taken at the same time. If you take any of the following medicines, take your fluoride dose 1 hour before you take the other medicine:

an antacid;

a laxative; or

a multivitamin or mineral supplement that contains calcium, aluminum, or magnesium.

Other drugs may affect fluoride, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Disclaimer

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