J Korean Dysphagia Soc.  2013 Jul;3(2):37-42.

Pharmacologic and Interventional Approach for Drooling

• Lee ZI

Abstract

Drooling is defined as the unintentional loss of saliva from the mouth, which is described as anterior drooling, while posterior drooling is described as saliva spilling through the faucial isthmus creating a risk of aspiration. Drooling is a distressing symptom for the patients with neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and stroke, because it causes physical and psychosocial problems that can have a negative impact on quality of life. A range of interventions such as behavioral approach, pharmacologic approach, botulinum toxin injection into salivary gland, radiotherapy or surgery, exist that aim to reduce drooling. But there is a lack of consensus on management approach, treatment dose or administration technique. Drooling will be best managed by a multidisciplinary team, starting with a conservative approach and then leading to more invasive procedures as appropriate.

Keyword

Drooling; Pharmacologic approach; Botulinum toxin injection