Luride

Pronounced: LUHR-ide
Generic name: Sodium fluoride

Why is Luride prescribed?

Luride is prescribed to strengthen children's teeth against decay during the period when the teeth are still developing.

Studies have shown that children who live where the drinking water contains a certain level of fluoride have fewer cavities than others. Fluoride helps prevent cavities in three ways: by increasing the teeth's resistance to dissolving on contact with acid, by strengthening teeth, and by slowing down the growth of mouth bacteria.

Luride may be given to children who live where the water fluoride level is 0.6 parts per million or less.

Most important fact about Luride

Before Luride is prescribed, it is important for the doctor to know the fluoride content of the water your child drinks every day. Your water company, or a private laboratory, can tell you the level of fluoride in your water.

How should you take Luride?

Give your child Luride exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is preferable to give the tablet at bedtime after the child's teeth have been brushed. The youngster may chew and swallow the tablet or simply suck on it until it dissolves. The liquid form of this medicine is to be taken by mouth only. It may be dropped directly into the mouth or mixed with water or fruit juice. Always store Luride drops in the original plastic dropper bottle.

--If you miss a dose...

Give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not give 2 doses at once.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture. Keep the liquid from freezing.

Luride side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop, tell your doctor immediately. Only your doctor can determine whether it is safe for your child to continue taking Luride.

In rare cases, Luride may cause an allergic rash or some other unexpected effect.

Why should Luride not be prescribed?

Your child should not take Luride if he or she is sensitive to it or has had an allergic reaction to sodium fluoride in the past.