A Comparative Study of Side Effect Profiles Between Pilocarpine and Natural Products in Libyan Xerostomia Patients

Abstract

This clinical study or research paper is based on studying the protocol of administering Pilocarpine in dentistry for Libyan patients suffering from dry mouth (xerostomia) to increase saliva flow. The sialometry technique was used to diagnose xerostomia. Despite the favourable therapeutic efficacy of Pilocarpine in managing xerostomia, it is associated with several side effects. Consequently, attention has shifted toward exploring natural alternatives to minimise these adverse effects. This study aims to compare the effects of Pilocarpine with certain natural products (Sugarless chewing gum, Olive oil, Chamomile, Lemon drops, and Zingiber officinale Roscoe (ginger)) to evaluate their comparative therapeutic efficacy.  The results of this study indicated that Pilocarpine treatment was associated with common side effects, primarily sweating and diarrhoea, while adverse effects related to liver and kidney diseases were the least observed. Conversely, the natural products demonstrated a high safety profile with no significant side effects, except for a mild burning sensation associated exclusively with Lemon and Ginger. Based on the preceding findings, we can conclude that Pilocarpine is more effective in treating xerostomia, though it is associated with notable side effects. Conversely, natural products demonstrated therapeutic efficacy at a relatively lower rate against xerostomia, but with significantly fewer side effects. Therefore, natural alternatives can be considered a safe and viable option in the management of xerostomia.