| abstract |
The present disclosure relates to an artificial saliva gel and uses thereof to treat or ameliorate dry mouth (xerostomia). The gel can be of a high viscosity that is maintained at body temperature or when exposed to bodily fluids (for instance, saliva). In some embodiments, the gel can act as a lubricant. Although water-based, the gel can be hydrophobic and not readily dissolvable in bodily fluids. In some embodiments, the gel can be sterile, safe for long-term repeated ingestion, and include a preservative. In some embodiments, the gel can comprise a dental agent for inhibiting growth of dental microorganisms. In order to achieve sterility while maintaining a desired viscosity range, the gel can include a viscosity stabilising agent such as a viscosity protection agent for protection from radiation induced breakdown. The gel can also include a coloring and/or a flavoring agent. |