Cariogenic Potential of Most Commonly Prescribed Liquid Oral Medicines for Children

Consumption of liquid oral medicine by frequently ill children, significantly increases the risk of tooth demineralization. In this study a survey was conducted wherein the pediatricians, pharmacist and medical representatives of Bhopal city were enquired about the most commonly prescribed liquid oral medicines for children. The four categories of medicines reported were: antipyretics/analgesics, antibiotics, antihistaminics/antitussives and multivitamins. Three samples from each category were taken. Sugar concentration was evaluated by Lane-Eynon general volumetric method and pH was measured by using digital pH meter (EU-TECH). High concentration of sugar was found in 50% of samples and 90% samples showed low pH. Sugar concentration was in a range of 20.6 to 68.2% and pH in a range of 3.8 to 8.5. As sugar in medication is a potential threat to teeth, therefore, alternatives including sugar substitute should be considered.