Magic Mouthwash for Dogs Just like humans, dogs can suffer from various oral health problems such as gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath. One potential solution to these issues is the use of magic mouthwash for dogs. Magic mouthwash is a combination of different ingredients that work together to combat oral health problems and provide relief to dogs. The exact formulation of magic mouthwash can vary, but it often includes antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and soothing ingredients. Antiseptic agents such as chlorhexidine help to kill bacteria and prevent the formation of plaque and tartar on the teeth and gums. Anti-inflammatory agents like diphenhydramine can reduce swelling and irritation in the mouth, while soothing agents like honey or aloe vera help to provide relief and promote healing.
Here at AlphaPaw, we believe our pets are family and deserve the best. That’s why we know you need to have all the information necessary before investing your trust in any product for your pets.
We ve just launched an all-new way to help eliminate your dog s bad breath , fight tartar and plaque build-up , plus leave their teeth and gums cleaner and healthier. We ve just launched an all-new way to help eliminate your dog s bad breath , fight tartar and plaque build-up , plus leave their teeth and gums cleaner and healthier.
Anti-inflammatory agents like diphenhydramine can reduce swelling and irritation in the mouth, while soothing agents like honey or aloe vera help to provide relief and promote healing. Magic mouthwash for dogs can be used in various situations. It can be applied directly to the dog's teeth and gums to help fight gum disease and tooth decay.
What is magic mouthwash?
Magic mouthwash is a treatment that some doctors prescribe to treat oral mucositis. This condition is a severe inflammation of the lining of the mouth. Various other medications combine to make the ingredients in magic mouthwash.
Oral mucositis is a common side effect of cancer treatments, especially radiation for head and neck cancer. While some studies support the use of magic mouthwash, others do not. Some expert organizations also warn of its dangers.
Keep reading to learn more about magic mouthwash, including factors to consider before using it.
Share on Pinterest A doctor may prescribe magic mouthwash to treat oral mucositis.
Magic mouthwash is a product that compounding pharmacies usually make.
Compounding a medication means that a pharmacist combines specific amounts of several commercially available medications to create a new medication. A doctor will write the prescription, which may look more like a recipe, for a compounded medication.
Other names for magic mouthwash include “Duke’s magic mouthwash” or “Mary’s magic mouthwash.”
Magic mouthwash usually contains:
- nystatin, an antifungal medication
- hydrocortisone, a steroid to reduce inflammation
- diphenhydramine, which can help dry out the mouth.
According to the North Carolina Board of Pharmacy, the specific mixture for magic mouthwash contains the following:
- 30 milliliters (ml) of nystatin suspension at 100,000 units/ml, or 3 million units of nystatin powder
- 60 milligrams hydrocortisone
- enough diphenhydramine HCL syrup to bring the total volume up to 240 ml
A person will usually store the mixture in a refrigerator. Most people should not use a formulation once 14 days have passed since the pharmacist first mixed the solution.
However, some recipes for magic mouthwash can vary. Sometimes, a pharmacy will add viscous lidocaine, which has a numbing effect.
Other times, they will add an antacid or other medication that coats the mouth’s lining to reduce discomfort. Examples include kaolin, aluminum or magnesium hydroxide, or sucralfate.
A pharmacy may supply magic mouthwash in small containers for individual use or a large container from which a person will pour each dose.
The typical administration is about 30 ml every 4–6 hours. A person may use a syringe to pull up the medication, or they may have a small measuring cup.
Magic mouthwash is only suitable for swishing in the mouth before a person spits it out. They should never drink the mouthwash.
The exact directions of use may vary, depending on the pharmacy compounding the mouthwash or the prescribing doctor. However, this is a general guide on using magic mouthwash:
- Obtain the correct dose of magic mouthwash, either by syringe, spoon, or measuring cup.
- Pour the liquid into the mouth.
- Swish the liquid in the mouth from side to side or in a swirling pattern for at least 1 minute. Setting a phone timer can help ensure that a person uses the mouthwash long enough.
- Spit out the mouthwash. Do not rinse the mouth after spitting, as this could reduce the medication’s effectiveness by washing away the mouthwash remnants.
- Refrain from eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes after using the mouthwash to maximize its effects.
Using or ingesting too much of the mouthwash can cause a person to experience nausea or numbness in the throat afterward.
Doctors usually prescribe magic mouthwash to reduce symptoms of oral mucositis. This condition can cause severe side effects, including bleeding ulcers in the mouth and significant oral pain. As a result, some people may not be able to eat or drink because their mouth hurts so much.
According to the Oncology Nursing Society, more than one-third of people undergoing cancer treatments discontinue the treatment responsible for mucositis due to the severity of their symptoms. Doctors may prescribe magic mouthwash and other solutions to try to help people continue to tolerate their treatments.
While the concept that magic mouthwash could help treat mucositis may be good in theory, researchers have not proven its effectiveness.
A 2016 randomized, double-blind study comparing magic mouthwash with another mouthwash and a placebo found that the magic mouthwash preparation was more effective than the placebo in reducing radiation-related mucositis pain.
The researchers asked the participants questions about pain reduction straight after they used the mouthwash and at intervals until 4 hours after using it. The researchers found that the participants tolerated the mouthwash well.
An older 2011 randomized study did not find magic mouthwash plus sucralfate to be more effective than another mouthwash type that included the medication benzydamine hydrochloride.
This study focused on whether the mouthwash could prevent oral mucositis. Therefore, the participants used the mouthwash both before and during their radiation treatments, rather than just during treatment.
Differences in formulations and uses for magic mouthwash — for example, treatment vs. prevention — make it difficult to conclude whether it is effective.
Magic mouthwash can cause several side effects. These include:
- changes in taste sensations
- dryness
- irritation
- nausea
- pain
- soreness
If a person uses magic mouthwash and experiences these or other unwanted symptoms, they should stop using the mouthwash and call their doctor. The doctor can recommend how they should proceed or prescribe another oral mucositis treatment.
Magic mouthwash is one example of a compounded mouthwash that doctors may prescribe to treat oral mucositis. Other options include:
- “Pink lady”: This mouthwash contains an antacid suspension (usually Maalox) and viscous lidocaine.
- “Noll’s solution”: This mouthwash contains diphenhydramine, nystatin, dexamethasone (another steroid type), and tetracycline (an antibiotic).
Doctors may also prescribe oral antibiotics or antifungal medications to reduce infection risks from ulcers. They may also prescribe pain-relieving medications to reduce the incidence of mucositis pain, allowing patients to continue with their cancer treatments.
Magic mouthwash may help relieve pain from the mouth ulcers and irritation that cancer treatments can cause.
However, the mouthwash can also cause side effects, and it may not work for some individuals struggling with mouth pain.
A person should contact their doctor if they are using magic mouthwash, and they experience worsening or new symptoms relating to its use.
Last medically reviewed on April 14, 2020
- Dentistry
- Cancer / Oncology
- Head and Neck Cancer
- Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine
- Cat 1
- oralhealth
Disp: #300 mL (15 day supply)
It can also be used as a rinse to freshen the dog's breath and provide relief from oral discomfort. Additionally, magic mouthwash can be used after dental procedures or surgeries to aid in the healing process. However, it is important to note that magic mouthwash for dogs should only be used under the guidance of a veterinarian. They can provide the appropriate formulation and guide you on how to use it safely. The veterinarian will assess the dog's specific oral health needs and determine the most suitable ingredients and concentrations for the magic mouthwash. It is crucial to avoid using human mouthwash or homemade concoctions as they may contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs. In conclusion, magic mouthwash for dogs can be a useful tool in maintaining oral health and providing relief to dogs with oral health problems. It is essential to consult with a veterinarian to ensure the formulation is appropriate for your dog and to receive proper instructions on how to use it safely. With regular use and proper oral care, magic mouthwash can help keep your dog's teeth and gums healthy..
Reviews for "The Role of Magic Mouthwash in Preventing Gum Disease in Dogs"
1. Sarah - 2 stars - I was really excited to try this Magic mouthwash for dogs, as my pup has some serious bad breath issues. However, I was extremely disappointed with the results. Not only did it not freshen his breath at all, but it also left a strange aftertaste. My dog refused to let me use it on him after the first attempt and I couldn't blame him. I would not recommend this product for anyone looking to freshen their dog's breath.
2. Mike - 1 star - I had high hopes for the Magic mouthwash, but it ended up being a complete waste of money. Not only did it do absolutely nothing to freshen my dog's breath, but it also caused some irritation on his gums. I followed the instructions carefully, but it just didn't work. I will definitely be looking for an alternative product as this one was a big disappointment.
3. Jennifer - 2 stars - I purchased the Magic mouthwash for my dog, hoping it would help with his bad breath. However, I didn't notice any improvement in his breath even after several uses. Additionally, the smell of the product was quite unpleasant and made the whole process of using it on my dog quite unpleasant too. I was really disappointed and will not be repurchasing this product.
4. John - 3 stars - I bought the Magic mouthwash for my dog after reading some positive reviews, but unfortunately, it didn't work as expected. While it did provide a temporary improvement in his breath, it didn't last long at all. The product also has a strong chemical odor that was off-putting. I believe there are better alternatives out there, so I won't be buying this again.