From the Research
The most effective magic mouthwash formula typically contains a combination of diphenhydramine, lidocaine, and an antacid, as evidenced by the study published in JAMA in 2019 1. This formula has been shown to reduce oral mucositis-related pain in patients undergoing head and neck radiotherapy. The standard dosing is usually 5-10 mL swished in the mouth for 1-2 minutes and then either spit out or swallowed, depending on the specific formulation, used every 4-6 hours as needed. Some key points to consider when using magic mouthwash include:
- The mixture helps reduce pain, inflammation, and infection in the mouth by combining medications that coat the oral mucosa, reduce inflammation, fight infection, and provide local numbing.
- Patients should refrigerate the mixture, shake well before using, and be aware that it typically expires within 7-14 days.
- Those using formulations with lidocaine should be cautious about eating after use due to the numbing effect, which could increase the risk of choking. It's worth noting that there is no single standardized formula for magic mouthwash, as preparations vary between institutions and pharmacies based on specific patient needs. However, the study published in JAMA in 2019 1 provides strong evidence for the effectiveness of the diphenhydramine, lidocaine, and antacid combination. Other studies, such as the one published in 2005 2, have also investigated the use of magic mouthwash, but the 2019 study 1 is the most recent and highest-quality evidence available. Additionally, a study published in 2000 3 compared the effectiveness of different mouthwashes, but its findings are not as relevant to the current question as the 2019 study 1. Another study published in 2017 4 discussed the development of nystatin and lidocaine pastilles for the treatment of oral mucositis, but it does not provide direct evidence for the effectiveness of magic mouthwash.