ABSTRACT

Background: There is enough evidence to support the information that long-term use of prescription medicines by children has increased in recent years. Determining the pH and effect of liquid medications on the growth of Streptococcus mutans could demonstrate the cariogenicity of these medicines. The aim of the study was to assess properties of pediatric liquid medicaments, such as pH and Streptococcus mutans growth & also to assess the carious activity of pediatric liquid medications. Methodology – Three commonly prescribed analgesics (calpol), antibiotics (evox) and anti- tussive (decoff-dx) preparation were used in study. The pH value of each pediatric liquid medicament was evaluated using pH strips. Ethical clearance was taken from Institutional ethical committee. The microbiological laboratory procedures of Pediatric liquid medications on Streptococcus mutans were carried out by ditch plate method. The plates were then incubated for 24 hours at 37°C, following which the plates were observed for zones of inhibition and/or exhibition. Colony count was measured using microprocessor colony counting meter. Statistical analysis was estimated using SPSS version 22. Results – Among three pediatric liquid medicaments, antibiotics (evoxil) showed highest pH value equal to 6. The analgesics syrup (calpol) and antitussives (Decoff-Dx) had same pH value equal to 4. Analgesic and Anti-tussives showed zone of inhibition in both 1:2 and 1:10 dilutions when Streptococcus mutans were incubated for 24 hours. Conclusions – Anti-tussives (Decoff-dx) seemed to be carious as it was acidic and inhibition of S. mutans was prominent. Analgesic (calpol) was also carious because of acidic nature and inhibition of S. mutans. Keywords: Streptococcus mutans, dental caries, antitussive
Publication date: 01/03/2024

https://ijbpas.com/pdf/2024/March/MS_IJBPAS_2024_7839.pdf

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https://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2024/13.3.7839