Acidulated Phosphate Fluoride Dental Rinse

What is this medication?

ACIDULATED PHOSPHATE FLUORIDE (uh SID yoo lay ted FOS fate FLOOR ide) prevents tooth decay. It may also be used to reduce gum and tooth sensitivity. It works by making your teeth stronger. Fluoride is a mineral that plays an important role in the health of your teeth and bones.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): APF, Dental Resources APF, FluoroCare Dual Rinse Part A, Perfect Choice APF

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• Porcelain or ceramic dentures
• An unusual or allergic reaction to fluoride, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is applied to the teeth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Brush thoroughly with toothpaste and rinse as usual. Swish vigorously 10 mL of the rinse between the teeth for 1 minute once daily, preferably at bedtime. After using, spit the rinse out. Do not eat, drink or rinse for 30 minutes for best results. Children should be shown how to swish the solution around the teeth and to spit out the rinse to prevent swallowing the solution. DO NOT SWALLOW the dental rinse. Do not use more often than directed.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While this medication may be prescribed for children as young as 6 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other dental products without asking your care team.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

This product may reduce your risk of dental cavities. Continue to follow proper dental hygiene, such as regular brushing and flossing. See your care team for regular check-ups.

If this rinse is accidentally swallowed, contact a Poison Control Center immediately. Also, prolonged daily ingestion can cause abnormal tooth enamel. Report any signs of abnormal tooth color or staining or spotting of the teeth right away.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Change in tooth color

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Irritation inside the mouth or throat
• Nausea

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.