Has significant anticholinergic and sedative properties that causes some degree of topical anesthesia due to impairment of nerve impulse transmission. Used for symptomatic treatment of acid-induced gastritis and treatment of GI ulcers. May work similarily to its effect upon GI ulcers by covering the ulcer base allowing more rapid healing. Swish and spit several times daily. The application of topical viscous lidocaine with a Q-tip several times daily can also help control pain for oral ulcers.
Dehydration occasionally occurs in children.
Rarely, cases are complicated with meningoencephalitis, myocarditis, pulmonary edema and death. Exclusion from school is generally not required. Good hand-washing technique is necessary to reduce potential spread of disease. Do not rupture blisters to reduce viral spreading. Lower lip shows an ulcer with erythematous halo.