Chewing Gum as a Therapeutic Intervention for the Management of Hypersalivation

Introduction Psychiatric disorders necessitate highly specific therapeutic approaches. Psychotropic medications, which are frequently prescribed in these settings, are well known for their substantial burden of adverse drug reactions. Among these, hypersialorrhea (excessive salivation) is a particularly common and disabling side effect, often associated with swallowing disturbances. Current pharmacological alternatives proposed to address this condition remain of limited efficacy and may themselves induce additional adverse effects. In light of these limitations, a rehabilitative, non-pharmacological intervention such as chewing gum mastication may represent a promising strategy. Objective The primary objective of this pilot study is to assess the effect of chewing gum mastication on hypersialorrhea in patients receiving psychotropic medications. Methods A randomized controlled trial will be conducted, comparing two groups: an experimental group undergoing a swallowing rehabilitation program incorporating chewing gum mastication, and a control group receiving no chewing-gum-based intervention. Expected Results This study is expected to provide preliminary evidence supporting the clinical utility of chewing gum mastication as a non-pharmacological approach for the management of hypersialorrhea. Beyond its direct clinical implications, the study aims to promote awareness of innovative, unconventional, yet potentially effective therapeutic strategies in psychiatry, thereby fostering further research in this field. Keywords Rehabilitation; occupational therapy; psychiatry; pilot study; chewing gum mastication; clinical management; non-pharmacological treatment.