Treatment Of Xerostomia Research Articles

The use of stem cells in treating xerostomia: a systematic review.

The complex nature of xerostomia prevents the establishment of a definite cure. Recently, research has pivoted towards stem cell transplantation for glandular reconstruction. The aim of this study is to provide an updated review of the existing research, to highlight the encountered challenges and research pathways, potentially enhancing the therapeutic applications of stem cell transplantation. This is a systematic review according to PRISMA guidelines, using the following databases: PubMed (PMC), PMC Europe, Scopus, Medline, Research Gate, Elsevier. The main question was whether stem cell therapies can contribute to the treatment of xerostomia. 19 of 226 publications met the criteria for this review, including 'in vivo', 'in vitro' studies and clinical trials. All 19 studies described thoroughly the stem cell source and the transplantation method, and documented results based on analytical and statistical methods of confirmation. Data show that the various sources of stem cells play a significant role, with bone marrow or adipose tissue-derived pluripotent blasts being the most utilized. Human transplants in mice have also been accepted and reversed hyposalivation. The effects have been beneficial especially in models undergone radiotherapy (IR) or exhibit Sjogren Syndrome-like symptoms (SS), suggesting that with appropriate treatment and enrichment techniques, stem cell transplantation seems effective regardless of the cause of the disorder. Extracts and co-cultures of gland and stem cells also seem to improve gland function. Although in its initial stages, the use of stem cells seems to be a promising therapy to alleviate xerostomia regardless of its cause.

Effectiveness of Argymax spray in treating xerostomia in pregnant women with isthmic-cervical insufficiency

Relevance. Xerostomia, commonly known as dry mouth, is a prevalent orofacial disorder among pregnant women experiencing isthmic-cervical insufficiency. This condition manifests as a burning sensation in the mouth, pain, and discomfort during eating. A clear correlation exists between pain, taste alterations, and the perception of oral dryness, highlighting the multifaceted impact of xerostomia on affected individuals. Pregnant women with isthmic-cervical insufficiency, a complication that significantly increases the risk of preterm labor, are particularly susceptible to xerostomia. This condition is often accompanied by heightened psycho-emotional stress, which can exacerbate the symptoms of dry mouth. Despite the multitude of treatments available for xerostomia, the primary objective for dentists is to formulate an appropriate and effective treatment plan, tailored to the physiological needs of the patient. This study evaluates the efficacy of Argymax spray in alleviating xerostomia in pregnant women with isthmic-cervical insufficiency.Materials and methods. A study was conducted involving 84 pregnant women who were assessed and treated over a three-week period to evaluate the rate of mixed saliva secretion. Subjective data were collected using a five-point scale to analyze the reduction in pain potential, itching, and burning. Hygienic and periodontal indices were determined before therapy and three months after the use of the spray.Results. The study demonstrated that Argymax spray begins to act within seven days of initial application and maintains its effectiveness throughout the observation period.Conclusion. Hormonal changes during pregnancy affect both the overall body and the condition of the oral cavity, making it particularly vulnerable. Early diagnosis and appropriate management strategies can prevent the development of several oral mucosal diseases associated with xerostomia. Argymax spray is recommended as symptomatic therapy for the treatment of xerostomia in pregnant women with isthmic-cervical insufficiency.

Artificial saliva plus beta-glucan for treatment of xerostomia in older adults: The clinical study of effectiveness and salivary total antioxidant capacity levels

To evaluate the effectiveness of 2 artificial saliva formulations, sodium carboxymethylcellulose artificial saliva spray and sodium carboxymethylcellulose artificial saliva spray plus β-glucan.: This study was a double-blind randomized controlled trial and involved older adults with xerostomia. The xerostomia inventory score, clinical oral dryness score, oral moisture degree, unstimulated salivary flow rate, and salivary total antioxidant capacity were measured prior to and after treatment. The results were evaluated 4 weeks after taking both products. : The study included 51 subjects in the control (n = 25) and BG (n = 26) groups. xerostomia inventory score and clinical oral dryness score were significantly lower in both groups after 4 weeks of treatment (p<0.00). Additionally, both groups had significantly greater oral moisture degree and unstimulated salivary flow rate than before treatment (p<0.05). Only the increase in oral moisture degree in the BG group was significantly greater than that in the control group (p=0.048). Both groups tended to have decreased salivary total antioxidant capacity, but only the control group had a significant difference at 4 weeks (p=0.004). There was no significant difference in satisfaction score between the two groups. No serious side effects were found in the study. : The clinical signs and symptoms of xerostomia were improved by both control and artificial BG saliva. BG improved oral moisture more than the control. Furthermore, BG was more likely to prevent a decrease in salivary total antioxidant capacity than was the control.

Long-Term Outcome Following Treatment With Allogeneic Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells for Radiation-Induced Hyposalivation and Xerostomia.

Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (ASCs) are proposed as a new xerostomia treatment. The study evaluated the long-term safety and effectiveness of allogeneic ASCs in radiation-induced xerostomia among patients with previous oropharyngeal cancer. This study constitutes 3-year follow-up on the original 10 patients who received allogeneic ASCs injections to the submandibular and parotid glands as part of the MESRIX-II trial. The MESRIX-II trial included the preliminary 4-month follow-up. The primary endpoint was long-term safety. Secondary endpoints were effectiveness evaluated by changes in salivary flow rate and patient-reported outcomes (PROs). Immune response was evaluated by assessing the development of donor-specific antibodies (DSA). All 10 MESRIX-II patients completed the long-term follow-up (ie, no missing data). During the long-term follow-up, 2 patients encountered a significant adverse event, which was determined to be unrelated to the treatment. No DSAs were detectable at 3 years. The stimulated salivary flow rate increased significantly from an average of 0.66 mL/minute at baseline to 0.86 mL/minute at follow-up, corresponding to an increase of 0.20 [95% CI 0.08 to 0.30] mL/minute, or approximately 30%. Among the PROs, sticky saliva symptoms were reduced, with a -20.0 [95% CI -37.3 to -2.7] units. In conclusion, this study is the first to present long-term follow-up outcomes of allogeneic ASC treatment as a therapeutic option for radiation-induced xerostomia. The study found that ASC treatment appears safe, and there were no indications of adverse immune responses at the 3-year follow-up. Further studies are warranted to evaluate the findings in larger settings.

Quality by design approach for fabrication of extended-release buccal films for xerostomia employing hot-melt extrusion technology

The study endeavors the fabrication of extended-release adipic acid (APA) buccal films employing a quality by design (QbD) approach. The films intended for the treatment of xerostomia were developed utilizing hot-melt extrusion technology. The patient-centered quality target product profile was created, and the critical quality attributes were identified accordingly. Three early-stage formulation development trials, complemented by risk assessment aligned the formulation and process parameters with the product quality standards. Employing a D-optimal mixture design, the formulations were systematically optimized by evaluating three formulation variables: amount of the release-controlling polymer Eudragit® (E RSPO), bioadhesive agent Carbopol® (CBP 971P), and pore forming agent polyethylene glycol (PEG 1500) as independent variables, and % APA release in 1, 4 and 8 h as responses. Using design of experiment software (Design-Expert®), a total of 16 experimental runs were computed and extruded using a Thermofisher ScientificTM twin screw extruder. All films exhibited acceptable content uniformity and extended-release profiles with the potential for releasing APA for at least 8 h. Films containing 30% E RSPO, 10% CBP 971P, and 20% PEG 1500 released 88.6% APA in 8 h. Increasing the CBP concentration enhanced adhesiveness and swelling capacities while decreasing E RSPO concentration yielded films with higher mechanical strength. The release kinetics fitted well into Higuchi and Krosmeyer-Peppas models indicating a Fickian diffusion release mechanism.

Oral Lubrication, Xerostomia, and Advanced Macromolecular Lubricants for Treatment of Dry Mouth

Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a condition in which insufficient or ineffective saliva does not provide sufficient oral lubrication. The severity of this condition can vary from a mild discomfort to a debilitating condition that greatly impairs patients’ lives. Xerostomia arises as a side effect of various medications, diseases, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or nerve damage. Various aqueous dispersions of macromolecules have been proposed to assist or replace the saliva in these patients. It is vital that these macromolecules have ample lubricity and water retention properties while showing long-lasting efficacy. The emphasis of this review is to provide a general overview on lubricating macromolecules that have been clinically used or reported in the literature as potential replacements for saliva. These include various natural or synthetic polymers, proteins, peptides, and lipids that are used in the form of solutions, gels, emulsions, and colloids. Perspectives into the future of macromolecular oral lubricants in the treatment of xerostomia are also provided.

Bioengineered Salivary Gland Microtissues─A Review of 3D Cellular Models and their Applications.

Salivary glands (SGs) play a vital role in maintaining oral health through the production and release of saliva. Injury to SGs can lead to gland hypofunction and a decrease in saliva secretion manifesting as xerostomia. While symptomatic treatments for xerostomia exist, effective permanent solutions are still lacking, emphasizing the need for innovative approaches. Significant progress has been made in the field of three-dimensional (3D) SG bioengineering for applications in gland regeneration. This has been achieved through a major focus on cell culture techniques, including soluble cues and biomaterial components of the 3D niche. Cells derived from both adult and embryonic SGs have highlighted key in vitro characteristics of SG 3D models. While still in its first decade of exploration, SG spheroids and organoids have so far served as crucial tools to study SG pathophysiology. This review, based on a literature search over the past decade, covers the importance of SG cell types in the realm of their isolation, sourcing, and culture conditions that modulate the 3D microenvironment. We discuss different biomaterials employed for SG culture and the current advances made in bioengineering SG models using them. The success of these 3D cellular models are further evaluated in the context of their applications in organ transplantation and in vitro disease modeling.

Evaluating of Knowledge of Dentists in Relation to Causes, Symptoms and Treatment of Xerostomia in Yazd City in 2022-2023

Introduction: Saliva has a key role in protecting the oral environment and functions such as chewing, swallowing, lack of saliva can cause many problems and suffering for patients and affect people's quality of life. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the level of awareness of dentists in Yazd City regarding the causes and symptoms and how to treat dry mouth in 2022-2023.
 Methods: In this cross-sectional descriptive study, 125 dentists of Yazd City were selected by convenience sampling method. A valid and reliable questionnaire was designed. The data were analyzed using t-test and ANOVA statistical tests and SPSS V.16.
 Results: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 125 dentists in Yazd City; they were selected by convenience sampling method, 65 of them were male (51.2%) and 60 were female (48.8%). The average of age, work experience and knowledge score of the examined dentists were 33.46±7.27, 6.79±6.57 and 15.24±2.90, respectively. There was no statistically significant relationship between knowledge score and gender and work experience and participate in retraining with P = 0.323, P = 0.120 and P = 0.167, respectively. But there was a statistically significant relationship between the knowledge score and age and university of study with P = 0.030 and P = 0.034. People with older age and educated in type 1 university had more knowledge about dry mouth.
 Conclusion: The results showed that the dentists of Yazd City had average knowledge about the causes, symptoms and how to treat xerostomia. And it is necessary to cooperate in holding refresher courses in this field.

Gingival-derived mesenchymal stem cell therapy regenerated the radiated salivary glands: functional and histological evidence in murine model

BackgroundRadiotherapy in head and neck cancer management causes degeneration of the salivary glands (SG). This study was designed to determine the potential of gingival mesenchymal stem cells (GMSCs) as a cell-based therapy to regenerate irradiated parotid SG tissues and restore their function using a murine model.MethodsCultured isolated cells from gingival tissues of 4 healthy guinea pigs at passage 3 were characterized as GMSCSs using flow cytometry for surface markers and multilineage differentiation capacity. Twenty-one Guinea pigs were equally divided into three groups: Group I/Test, received single local irradiation of 15 Gy to the head and neck field followed by intravenous injection of labeled GMSCs, Group II/Positive control, which received the same irradiation dose followed by injection of phosphate buffer solution (PBS), and Group III/Negative control, received (PBS) injection only. Body weight and salivary flow rate (SFR) were measured at baseline, 11 days, 8-, 13- and 16-weeks post-irradiation. At 16 weeks, parotid glands were harvested for assessment of gland weight and histological and immunohistochemical analysis.ResultsThe injected GMSCs homed to degenerated glands, with subsequent restoration of the normal gland histological acinar and tubular structure associated with a significant increase in cell proliferation and reduction in apoptotic activity. Subsequently, a significant increase in body weight and SFR, as well as an increase in gland weight at 16 weeks in comparison with the irradiated non-treated group were observed.ConclusionThe study provided a new potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of xerostomia by re-engineering radiated SG using GMSCs.

Xerostomia: Current Advancements and Insights in Biomedical and Biotechnology Research

Xerostomia, commonly referred to as dry mouth, is a medical condition where the flow of saliva in the mouth is reduced or completely absent. Xerostomia is not categorized as a particular disease entity but is a symptom associated with decreased or lack of salivary secretion. Its effects on oral health and overall well-being can be significant and it can be caused by various factors such as medication use, radiation therapy, surgery, salivary gland problems, and other underlying medical conditions. A health-care professional typically diagnoses xerostomia by evaluating a patient’s symptoms and conducting a physical clinical exam. The patient’s medical and medication history may also be reviewed to identify any potential underlying causes. Decreased salivary secretion can make chewing, breaking up the food and the formation of a food bolus difficult, which increases the risk of incorrect swallowing as well as altered taste and can contribute to the experience of dysphagia. It is crucial for individuals experiencing xerostomia to seek medical attention from a health-care professional to determine the underlying cause and develop a suitable management plan. Xerostomia represents a serious problem with medical and dental implications. The search for related articles was conducted through databases including PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar. This comprehensive review article offers the latest insights into the origins, diagnosis, and treatment of xerostomia, with a particular focus on prevention. In addition, it recognizes the significant impact of innovative approaches in addressing xerostomia and highlights their valuable contribution to its management.

(No) Oral Health in Palliative Care Patients: Predisposing Factors and Treatment.

To describe mouth disorders in patients undergoing palliative care (PC); to identify predisposing factors for oral disorders and pharmacological and nonpharmacological strategies. Observational, exploratory, correlational, and descriptive study about mouth disorders of patients admitted to a hospital specializing in PC in Portugal, between November 6, 2019, and July 31, 2020. The data collection instrument was a questionnaire and the consultation of the patient's clinical file. It was obtained the previous authorization of the ethics committee and the patient's informed consent. Data were analyzed using the SPSS® software (V.26). The sample was 46, 56.52% were over 71 years old, and the male sex ratio of 63.04%. Most of the patients had an advanced oncological disease, were polymedicated, had missing teeth, and no regular hygiene habits. Xerostomia and oral candidiasis were the most identified problems. Patients with oncological diseases have more probability to suffer from mouth disorders (P = .047), compared to noncancer patients. Patients with frequent oral hygiene have fewer mouth disorders (rp = -0.304; P = .040). There is a considerable improvement in the tongue coating with an increase in oral hygiene (P = .005). Mouth care plays is important in patient comfort (n = 45; 97.83%) and nonpharmacological strategies are effective for the relief of xerostomia (n = 35; 94.59%). Nonpharmacological strategies are effective in the treatment of xerostomia and tongue coating. More information to determine the effectiveness of the strategies in the treatment of mouth disorders is necessary.

Anticholinergic Burden and Xerostomia in Critical Care Settings.

Although previous studies have established the association of medications with anticholinergic adverse effects and xerostomia, anticholinergic burden and xerostomia in critical care settings are poorly characterized. The objective of this study was to determine the impact of medication burdens associated with anticholinergic adverse effects, particularly the occurrence of xerostomia (dry mouth) in a critical care setting. In addition, this study explored the correlation between the timing of the first instance of xerostomia and the administration timing of medication known to have anticholinergic adverse effects. A retrospective case-control study was used with the MIMIC (Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care) III database. The MIMIC-III clinical database is a publicly available, deidentified, health-related database with more than 40 000 patients in critical care units from 2001 to 2012. Cases of xerostomia (n = 1344) were selected from clinical notes reporting "dry mouth," "xerostomia," or evidence of pharmacological treatment for xerostomia; control (n = 4032) was selected using the propensity analysis with 1:3 matching on covariates (eg, age, sex, race, ethnicity, and length of stay). The anticholinergic burden was quantified as the cumulative effect of anticholinergic activities using the Anticholinergic Burden Scale. Anticholinergic burden significantly differed between xerostomia patients and control subjects (P = .04). The length of stay was a statistically significant factor in xerostomia. The probability of developing the symptom of xerostomia within 24 hours was .95 (95%) for patients of xerostomia. Anticholinergic Burden Scale is associated with xerostomia in the critical care setting, particularly within 24 hours after admission. It is crucial to carefully evaluate alternative options for medications that may have potential anticholinergic adverse effects. This evaluation should include assessing the balance between the benefits and harms, considering the probability of withdrawal reactions, and prioritizing deprescribing whenever feasible within the initial 24-hour period.

Acrylamide-Based Saliva-Gels as a Potential Xerostomia Treatment

Acrylamide-Based Saliva-Gels as a Potential Xerostomia Treatment

Maintenance of adult stem cells from human minor salivary glands via the Wnt signaling pathway

BackgroundXerostomia is a salivary gland dysfunction that negatively impacts the life quality of patients; however, there is no effective treatment for xerostomia. Bioengineered organs, generated using stem cells obtained from newborn salivary glands and ligated injury models, are a new organ transplantation strategy that could be feasible for xerostomia treatment. Reconstruction of salivary gland organoids by seed cells obtained from human minor salivary glands will offer theoretical fundaments and technology support for clinical application and organ regeneration research. Herein, we aimed to propose a new method for culturing and enriching adult human minor salivary gland stem cells in vitro in a three-dimensional (3D) environment via Wnt signaling activation.MethodsObtained and characterized human minor salivary gland stem cells (hMSGSCs) with self-organization ability were 3D-cultured to generate organoids. We examined hMSGSCs proliferation and colony formation using MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assays. Telomerase reverse transcriptase staining, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence assay, RNA isolation, RT-PCR, and qPCR were performed to assess hMSGSCs structure and the function of reconstructive organoids in vitro.ResultshMSGSCs showed typical epithelial-like characteristics, such as positive for CD49f and cell KRT expression. hMSGSCs served as adult stem cells in salivary glands and could differentiate into acinar and duct cells. Upon the addition of Noggin, CHIR99021, and Wnt3A to the 3D culture system, hMSGSCs showed higher LGR5 expression and decreased AMY1B and MUC5B expression. Therefore, the Wnt and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) pathways are important in regulating hMSGSCs self-organization and differentiation.ConclusionsWe showed that the stem cell properties of hMSGSCs in a 3D culture system can be maintained by activating the Wnt signaling pathway and inhibiting the BMP signaling pathway. Our findings contribute new insights on salivary gland organoid generation in vitro.

A Review of the Role of Natural Products as Treatment Approaches for Xerostomia.

Xerostomia, commonly known as dry mouth, is a widespread oral health malfunction characterized by decreased salivary flow. This condition results in discomfort, impaired speech and mastication, dysphagia, heightened susceptibility to oral infections, and ultimately, a diminished oral health-related quality of life. The etiology of xerostomia is multifaceted, with primary causes encompassing the use of xerostomic medications, radiation therapy to the head and neck, and systemic diseases such as Sjögren's syndrome. Consequently, there is a growing interest in devising management strategies to address this oral health issue, which presents significant challenges due to the intricate nature of saliva. Historically, natural products have served medicinal purposes, and in contemporary pharmaceutical research and development, they continue to play a crucial role, including the treatment of xerostomia. In this context, the present review aims to provide an overview of the current state of knowledge regarding natural compounds and extracts for xerostomia treatment, paving the way for developing novel therapeutic strategies for this common oral health issue.

XEROSTOMIA AS AN IDIOPATHIC SYMPTOM IN DENTISTRY

The article presents an overview of modern scientific literature on the problem of xerostomia and its etiopathogenetic connection with various general somatic diseases. To date, often the treatment of xerostomia is carried out as an independent disease, due to the failure to identify the underlying pathology. Often, ignorance of the causal relationship of various diseases, both somatic and psycho-emotional, leads to an incorrect diagnosis at a dental appointment and, as a result, an incorrect treatment plan, which leads to a deterioration in the patient's condition and the occurrence of complications. In this connection, the task of a modern dentist becomes urgent to establish the true cause of the pathology of the oral cavity and provide highly qualified treatment, according to the obtained diagnostic data.

Dental Pulp Stem Cells for Salivary Gland Regeneration-Where Are We Today?

Xerostomia is the phenomenon of dry mouth and is mostly caused by hypofunction of the salivary glands. This hypofunction can be caused by tumors, head and neck irradiation, hormonal changes, inflammation or autoimmune disease such as Sjögren's syndrome. It is associated with a tremendous decrease in health-related quality of life due to impairment of articulation, ingestion and oral immune defenses. Current treatment concepts mainly consist of saliva substitutes and parasympathomimetic drugs, but the outcome of these therapies is deficient. Regenerative medicine is a promising approach for the treatment of compromised tissue. For this purpose, stem cells can be utilized due to their ability to differentiate into various cell types. Dental pulp stem cells are adult stem cells that can be easily harvested from extracted teeth. They can form tissues of all three germ layers and are therefore becoming more and more popular for tissue engineering. Another potential benefit of these cells is their immunomodulatory effect. They suppress proinflammatory pathways of lymphocytes and could therefore probably be used for the treatment of chronic inflammation and autoimmune disease. These attributes make dental pulp stem cells an interesting tool for the regeneration of salivary glands and the treatment of xerostomia. Nevertheless, clinical studies are still missing. This review will highlight the current strategies for using dental pulp stem cells in the regeneration of salivary gland tissue.

Effect of Pilocarpine Mouthwash on Salivary Flow Rate in Patients with Xerostomia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Xerostomia is a subjective sensation of dry mouth considered as a complex state affecting multiple oral functions. Pilocarpine may be a useful medication for the treatment of xerostomia, but its side effects limit its use under certain conditions. Recent studies have focused on the pilocarpine mouthwash as an alternative. We have undertaken this study to review the latest available scientific evidence systematically, concerning the effects of pilocarpine mouthwash on salivary flow rate in patients with xerostomia. An electronic search for randomized controlled trials published in English until September 2021 related to pilocarpine mouthwash and salivary flow rate in patients with dry mouth was performed in PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Embase, and Scopus. A random-effects meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the relationship between the groups. Two papers with 86 patients were selected for the final review based on strict eligibility criteria. According to the results of the meta-analysis, the mean visual analogue scale in the patient treated with pilocarpine mouthwash was 0.88 unit lower than that of the control group in the fourth week follow; however, it was not statistically significant (pooled mean difference=-0.88, 95% CI = (-2.72; 0.95), p= 0.34). It seems that the use of pilocarpine mouthwash can increase the salivary flow rates; however, no optimal dose and application regimen can currently be suggested due to the high heterogeneity of the data. Regarding the relief of the symptoms using pilocarpine mouthwash, the existing evidence does not support its effectiveness.

A novel microfluidic compact disc to investigate electrochemical property changes between artificial and real salivary samples mixed with mouthwashes using electrical impedance analysis.

Diagnosing oral diseases at an early stage may lead to better preventive treatments, thus reducing treatment burden and costs. This paper introduces a systematic design of a microfluidic compact disc (CD) consisting of six unique chambers that run simultaneously from sample loading, holding, mixing and analysis. In this study, the electrochemical property changes between real saliva and artificial saliva mixed with three different types of mouthwashes (i.e. chlorhexidine-, fluoride- and essential oil (Listerine)-based mouthwashes) were investigated using electrical impedance analysis. Given the diversity and complexity of patient's salivary samples, we investigated the electrochemical impedance property of healthy real saliva mixed with different types of mouthwashes to understand the different electrochemical property which could be a foundation for diagnosis and monitoring of oral diseases. On the other hand, electrochemical impedance property of artificial saliva, a commonly used moisturizing agent and lubricant for the treatment of xerostomia or dry mouth syndrome was also studied. The findings indicate that artificial saliva and fluoride-based mouthwash showed higher conductance values compared to real saliva and two other different types of mouthwashes. The ability of our new microfluidic CD platform to perform multiplex processes and detection of electrochemical property of different types of saliva and mouthwashes is a fundamental concept for future research on salivary theranostics using point-of-care microfluidic CD platform.

Characteristics of medication-induced xerostomia and effect of treatment.

Side-effects of medications cause xerostomia. There have been cases where a medication has been discontinued owing to its severe side-effects. Therefore, the xerostomia must be treated to ensure that the primary disease is managed effectively. This study analyzed the actual status of patients with medication-induced xerostomia and investigates factors associated with its improvement. This study assessed 490 patients diagnosed with medication-induced xerostomia who had an unstimulated salivary flow of ≤0.1 mL/min and received treatment for xerostomia at a xerostomia clinic. Patient age, sex, medical history, medications used, disease duration of xerostomia, and psychological disorders were recorded. The anticholinergic burden was assessed using the Anticholinergic Cognitive Burden scale. The unstimulated salivary flow was measured by the spitting method. According to their symptoms and diagnoses, the patients were introduced to oral lubricants, instructed on how to perform massage, and prescribed Japanese herbal medicines, and sialogogues. Factors associated with the subjective improvement of xerostomia and objective changes in the salivary flow rate were recorded at six months. Xerostomia improved in 338 patients (75.3%). The improvement rate was significantly lower in patients with psychiatric disorders (63.6%) (P = 0.009). The improvement rate decreased as more anticholinergics were used (P = 0.018). However, xerostomia improved in approximately 60% of patients receiving three or more anticholinergics. The unstimulated salivary flow increased significantly more in patients who reported an improvement of xerostomia (0.033±0.053 mL/min) than in those who reported no improvement (0.013±0.02 mL/min) (P = 0.025). Xerostomia treatment improved oral dryness in 75.3% of patients receiving xerogenic medications in this study. If xerostomia due to side-effects of medications can be improved by treatment, it will greatly contribute to the quality of life of patients with xerogenic medications and may reduce the number of patients who discontinue medications.