AMLODIPINE INDUCED GINGIVAL ENLARGEMENT: A CASE REPORT

Abstract

Gingival enlargement is a side effect associated with certain drugs. Amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker, used as an antihypertensive drug has been found to be associated with gingival hyperplasia. This case report presents diagnosis and management of amlodipine-induced gingival hyperplasia. Amlodipine-induced gingival enlargement was diagnosed and managed through scaling and root planning. Drug substitution and surgical intervention was performed in first two cases. The pathogenesis of gingival enlargement is uncertain and treatment is still largely limited to the maintenance of an improved level of oral hygiene and surgical removal of the overgrown tissue. Several factors may influence the relationship between the drugs and gingival tissues. Meticulous oral hygiene maintenance, switchover to an alternative drug, professional scaling and root planning and surgical excision of enlarged gingival tissue may help overcome the effect of these drugs.