Which medication is known to lead to gingival hyperplasia?

Which medication is known to lead to gingival hyperplasia?

• A. Antidepressants
• B. Anticonvulsants (dilantin)
• C. Antihistamines
• D. Blood thinners

Answer: (B)

Gingival hyperplasia is a condition characterized by the overgrowth of gum tissue, which can be caused by several medications, including certain anticonvulsants. The medication specifically known for leading to gingival hyperplasia is Phenytoin, commonly referred to as Dilantin. This drug is often prescribed to help control seizures in individuals with epilepsy. The mechanism by which Phenytoin causes gingival hyperplasia is not completely understood, but it is believed to involve the stimulation of fibroblast proliferation and increased collagen production in the gingival tissues. This overproduction of connective tissue leads to the visible swelling and enlargement of the gums. In contrast, other classes of medications such as antidepressants, antihistamines, and blood thinners, do not have this specific side effect of gingival hyperplasia. While some other medications might cause changes in oral health or exacerbate existing conditions, they do not typically result in the significant gum overgrowth that is characteristic of the condition associated with Phenytoin use. Therefore, when considering medications linked to gingival changes, anticonvulsants like Dilantin stand out due to their clear association with gingival hyperplasia.

Gingival hyperplasia is a condition characterized by the overgrowth of gum tissue, which can be caused by several medications, including certain anticonvulsants. The medication specifically known for leading to gingival hyperplasia is Phenytoin, commonly referred to as Dilantin. This drug is often prescribed to help control seizures in individuals with epilepsy.

The mechanism by which Phenytoin causes gingival hyperplasia is not completely understood, but it is believed to involve the stimulation of fibroblast proliferation and increased collagen production in the gingival tissues. This overproduction of connective tissue leads to the visible swelling and enlargement of the gums.

In contrast, other classes of medications such as antidepressants, antihistamines, and blood thinners, do not have this specific side effect of gingival hyperplasia. While some other medications might cause changes in oral health or exacerbate existing conditions, they do not typically result in the significant gum overgrowth that is characteristic of the condition associated with Phenytoin use. Therefore, when considering medications linked to gingival changes, anticonvulsants like Dilantin stand out due to their clear association with gingival hyperplasia.