LAUSR

AIM The aim of this study was to modify xanthan, a well-known gelling agent, in order to treat sialorrhea, which increases salivary flow due to an excessive stimulus of the salivary reflex. METHODS Chemical modification occurs by covalent attachment of l-cysteine (SH) to the polymeric backbone of xanthan (X) via amide bond formation. Safety considerations, water uptake capacity, and erosion were evaluated. Furthermore, mucoadhesiveness on buccal mucosa and vapor uptake studies were performed. In vitro/in vivo correlation of reduce of salivary flow was conducted and drug release of embedded tannin was determined. RESULTS Safety investigations ensured modified X-SH being safe to use. X-SH exposed 1.5-x higher water uptake capacity in comparison to unmodified xanthan. Then, stability of X-SH augmented 5.5-fold in the case of matrix erosion studies. Reduction of salivary flow could be obtained 1.6-fold improved in case of X-SH compared to X. Furthermore, tannin was 1.8-fold controlled released in comparison to unmodified xanthan. CONCLUSION Taking these findings into consideration, chemical modified xanthan emerged with its distinctive properties as a promising approach in treating sialorrhea.