Sialogogue
Sialogogue
Sialogogue (pronunciation: /saɪˈaləˌgɒg/), also known as ptyalagogue, is a type of substance that stimulates the flow of saliva in the mouth. The term is derived from the Greek words "sialon" (saliva) and "agogos" (leading).
Etymology
The term "sialogogue" is derived from the Greek words "sialon" meaning saliva, and "agogos" meaning leading. Thus, a sialogogue is something that leads or stimulates the production of saliva.
Function
Sialogogues are often used in medicine to treat conditions such as xerostomia (dry mouth), which can be caused by various factors including certain medications, aging, or as a side effect of radiation therapy for cancer. By stimulating the salivary glands to produce more saliva, sialogogues can help to alleviate the symptoms of dry mouth and improve oral health.
Types of Sialogogues
There are two main types of sialogogues: pharmaceutical and natural. Pharmaceutical sialogogues include drugs such as pilocarpine and cevimeline, which are often prescribed for patients with conditions like Sjögren's syndrome, a chronic autoimmune disease that causes dryness in the mouth and eyes. Natural sialogogues include substances like lemon juice and other sour foods and drinks, which can stimulate saliva production when consumed.
Related Terms
- Saliva: The fluid produced in the mouth that aids in digestion and maintains oral health.
- Salivary glands: The glands in the mouth that produce saliva.
- Xerostomia: A condition characterized by dryness in the mouth due to reduced or absent saliva flow.
- Pilocarpine: A medication often used as a sialogogue to treat dry mouth.
- Cevimeline: Another medication used as a sialogogue, specifically for patients with Sjögren's syndrome.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sialogogue
- Wikipedia's article - Sialogogue
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