Effects of benzydamine on the oral mucositis during antineoplastic radiotherapy and/or intra-arterial chemotherapy

Abstract

In view of the good results obtained with benzydamine against oral radio-chemomucositis in a previous trial, a double-blind/placebo study was undertaken in order to ascertain the possible oral histoprotective effect of benzydamine mouthwash during the intra-arterial polychemotherapy and/or radiotherapy for neoplasms of the head and neck. Statistical comparison of the results obtained in these two groups, treated with benzydamine and placebo mouthwash, revealed a marked difference in the clinical evolution of iatrogenic tissue damage. The benzydamine topical application was more effective than placebo in the control of mucositis symptoms and signs produced by radiotherapy and/or intra-arterial antineoplastic chemotherapy.