Pediatric liquid medicaments (PLM) are popular and are easily accepted by both parents and children. They are widely prescribed and easily available. However the sugar content and properties of these preparations determines their cariogenic potential.
Aims and objectives: This study assessed the pH and viscosity of pediatric liquid medicaments, type and concentration of sugars present in them and their effect on the growth of Streptococcus mutans.
Methodology: PLM included two each of the most commonly prescribed analgesics, antibiotics, nutritional supplements, antitussive and antiepileptic preparations. The endogenous pH was measured using a digital pH meter and the viscosity was measured using a digital Brookefield viscometer. Analysis of sugars (sucrose, glucose and sorbitol) was performed using High Performance Liquid Chromatography. The effect of PLM on Streptococcus mutans was done by ditch plate method.
Results: The pH of PLM ranged from 3.70 to 7.04 and viscosity varied from 307.33cP to 2408.33cP. Fifty percent of the PLM contained sucrose, glucose and sorbitol, and sucrose was present in nine of the PLM. The antibiotic preparations showed zones of inhibition against growth of Streptococcus mutans.
Conclusions: The physical properties of Pediatric Liquid Medicaments as well as the type and concentration of sugars present in them can be indicative of their cariogenic potential.