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Patient instructions

Magic Mouthwash Patient Instructions

These instructions are for compounded prescription mouthwashes — often called “magic mouthwash” or “pink lady” — used to relieve painful mouth sores from chemotherapy or radiation, to help prevent infection of those sores, and to ease mouth and throat pain. Available by prescription only.

Shake well every time

The ingredients can settle between doses. Shaking the bottle before measuring keeps each dose consistent.

Wait 30 minutes

Do not eat or drink for at least 30 minutes after a dose so the medication stays in contact with the sore areas.

Numbing caution

If your mixture contains lidocaine or tetracaine, it can temporarily numb your mouth and throat. Be very careful when eating — especially hot or cold foods — and when swallowing.

How to Use

  1. 1Shake the bottle well before measuring so each dose contains the right amount of medication.
  2. 2Measure the dose written on your prescription label.
  3. 3Put the measured liquid in your mouth and swish it around for at least 1 to 2 minutes, or as directed. Try to coat as much of the inside of your mouth as possible.
  4. 4Spit the mouthwash out, or swallow it — your prescription label tells you which. If you are not sure, call the pharmacy before your next dose.
  5. 5Do not eat or drink anything for at least 30 minutes afterward. The longer the medication stays in contact with the sore areas, the better it is likely to work.

If You Miss a Dose

  • This medication is often used as needed, so missed doses are usually not an issue.
  • If you are using it on a regular schedule and miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember.
  • If it is close to the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Do not double up.
  • If you are unsure what to do, call the pharmacy.

Side Effects

These mouthwashes are usually well tolerated. You may notice:

  • A stinging feeling when the mouthwash touches open sores. This is common and often settles on its own.
  • Changes in how things taste.
  • If the medication is swallowed, less common effects can include drowsiness, dizziness, a faster heart rate, nausea, or constipation.

Serious Allergic Reaction

A very serious allergic reaction to this medication is rare. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following:

  • Rash
  • Itching or swelling, especially of the face, tongue, or throat
  • Severe dizziness
  • Trouble breathing

Storage

Many of these mixtures are stored in the refrigerator until the expiry date on the label, but storage depends on the ingredients. Check your bottle’s label for the storage instructions that apply to your prescription, and keep the bottle out of reach of children.

When to Call the Pharmacy

  • You are not sure whether your mixture should be spit out or swallowed.
  • You miss doses on a regular schedule and are unsure how to restart.
  • Side effects are bothering you or are not settling.
  • You are running low — compounded mouthwashes are prepared to order, so plan refills a few days ahead.