From the Research
Dronedarone has not been definitively linked to gingival hyperplasia (gum overgrowth). While some antiarrhythmic medications, particularly phenytoin, cyclosporine, and calcium channel blockers like nifedipine and amlodipine, are well-known to cause gingival hyperplasia, dronedarone (brand name Multaq) is not typically associated with this side effect. If a patient on dronedarone experiences gum changes, it's essential to consider other medications they may be taking simultaneously, as well as their oral hygiene practices.
Key Considerations
- Patients taking dronedarone should maintain regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene, including brushing twice daily and flossing.
- If gingival changes occur while on dronedarone, the patient should consult both their cardiologist and dentist to determine the cause, as it may be related to another medication or condition.
- The mechanism by which some medications cause gingival hyperplasia involves alterations in collagen metabolism and fibroblast activity in gum tissue, but current evidence does not suggest dronedarone works through these pathways to affect gum tissue, as noted in studies such as 1.
Clinical Evidence
Studies have evaluated the efficacy and safety of dronedarone in patients with atrial fibrillation, but none have specifically linked it to gingival hyperplasia, as seen in 2, 3, and 4.
Recommendations
Given the lack of evidence linking dronedarone to gingival hyperplasia, patients on dronedarone should focus on maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups. If gum changes occur, a thorough evaluation by both a cardiologist and a dentist is necessary to determine the cause and appropriate management, considering the patient's overall medication regimen and health status, as discussed in 5 and 1.