What is Magic Mouthwash?
Magic mouthwash is a compounded oral solution often prescribed to relieve pain, inflammation, and other symptoms associated with oral mucositis, mouth sores, or similar conditions. It’s commonly used for patients undergoing cancer treatments, like chemotherapy and radiation, strep, sore throat, or thrush as these treatments and illnesses can cause painful oral side effects.
The formula for magic mouthwash varies, but it typically contains a combination of the following ingredients:
- An anesthetic (e.g., lidocaine) to numb the mouth and reduce pain.
- An antihistamine (e.g., diphenhydramine) to reduce inflammation and soothe the mucous membranes.
- An antacid (e.g., aluminum hydroxide or magnesium hydroxide) to coat the mouth and throat.
- An antifungal or antibiotic (e.g., nystatin) to treat or prevent infections in the mouth.
- An antibiotic (e.g.,Tetracycline) to treat or prevent infections in the mouth.
- An-Antiinflammatory (e.g. Naltrexone) to treat or prevent inflammation in the mouth or throat.
- A corticosteroid to reduce inflammation (in some formulations).
Common Compounding Variations
Pharmacists may customize the formulation based on the specific needs of the patient and the doctor’s orders. Some versions may also include other ingredients to treat specific symptoms, like ulcers or infections.
Usage and Directions
Patients are generally advised to swish the mouthwash in their mouth for about 1-2 minutes and then spit it out. They should follow specific instructions regarding frequency and dosage based on their prescription, as some ingredients (like lidocaine) should not be swallowed.
Benefits of Magic Mouthwash
- Relieves pain from oral mucositis or sores. To learn more about mucositis click here.
- Reduces swelling and irritation.
- Prevents infections in oral sores.
Due to the custom nature of magic mouthwash, it’s typically available only at compounding pharmacies like Webster Pharmacy. Webster Pharmacy works with prescribers to get the right ingredients into your Magic Mouthwash. Webster Pharmacy is a compounding pharmacy in Saint Louis, Missouri.
To learn more about Webster Pharmacy click here.
To find out if one of our mouthwashes are right for you click here.