Biotene Spray: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates

Quick overview

Biotene Spray is an over-the-counter dental product that works as a saliva substitute to relieve dry mouth (xerostomia). It adds moisture and lubrication to the mouth and throat, is free of alcohol and sugar, and can provide relief for up to 4 hours in clinical testing. It should be used as needed according to the specific product directions.

What is Biotene Spray

Biotene Moisturizing Mouth Spray is an over-the-counter saliva substitute that acts like natural saliva to relieve dry mouth (xerostomia).

Biotene Spray uses

• Helps relieve dry mouth symptoms (xerostomia)
• Lubricates and adds moisture to the mouth and throat when the body does not make enough natural saliva
• Helps ease dryness caused by medications, aging, stress, autoimmune conditions, or cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation
• Soothes oral tissues and helps freshen breath

Benefits of Biotene Spray

• Free of alcohol and sugar, with a pH balanced to mimic natural saliva
• Generally well tolerated
• Provides immediate dry-mouth relief
• Can provide symptom relief for up to 4 hours in clinical testing
• Portable and convenient for use during the day

How Biotene Spray works

Biotene spray adds moisture and helps lubricate the inside of the mouth. Some products contain xylitol, which may help increase the amount of saliva the body makes.

Biotene Spray dosage

Spray directly into the mouth, onto the tongue, and spread thoroughly throughout the mouth. Use as required. Apply to the tongue and then spread it around the mouth. Follow the specific product directions, since instructions can vary between different Biotene products. Do not swallow on purpose; spit out after use. It is safe to swallow if used as directed on the label.

Available forms and strengths

• Paste
• Gel
• Cream
• Rinse
• Spray
• Lozenge
• Toothpaste

Side effects of Biotene Spray

Common

• Minor mouth irritation
• Changes in taste
• Speech changes

Serious

• Breathing problems or wheezing
• Racing heart
• Fever or general ill feeling
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
• Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
• Itching or skin rash
• Hives
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
• Stomach cramps
• Joint pain

Warnings and precautions

• Do not use the buccal rinse form if you have trouble swallowing; ask your dentist or doctor about other options.
• Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice; some forms are not approved for children under 12.
• Do not let a young child use Biotene without adult help.
• If you have mouth irritation while using Biotene, stop using it and ask your pharmacist or health care provider for other options.
• Keep Biotene out of the reach of children and pets, since products containing xylitol can be toxic to dogs and other animals.
• Tell your health care provider if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. 
• If you are using a certain prescription form of Biotene, tell your dentist or doctor if you have kidney disease. It is not known whether drinking alcohol affects Biotene. Biotene does not normally impair driving or alertness.

Storage

• Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze. Store according to the package label, generally in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and out of the reach of children and pets.

When to see a doctor

• Get emergency medical help right away if you have signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as hives, trouble breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Call your dentist or doctor if your tooth or mouth sensitivity does not improve or gets worse.
• Stop using Biotene and call your dentist or doctor if your symptoms do not improve or get worse.
• Get medical help right away if someone accidentally uses too much Biotene, and contact your local poison control center if needed.

Alternatives

• Biotène Oralbalance Gel
• Biotène Dry Mouth Oral Rinse
• Artificial saliva products
• Sugar-free dry-mouth lozenges