The use of antiseptic mouthwash is widespread due to its oral health benefits. However, its impact on systemic physiological processes, particularly nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability and muscle contractility, is not fully understood. PURPOSE: To determine the effects of cetylpyridinium-based (antibacterial) versus sodium chloride (NaCl) -based (control) mouthwashes on salivary and breath NO markers and muscle contractile function in healthy young adults. METHODS: Twenty-six participants (n=13/group) completed a randomized, parallel-arm, blinded trial, comparing the effects of the two mouthwashes before and after 7 d of treatment. NO bioavailability was assessed via measurement of nitrate (NO3-), nitrite (NO2-), and cyclic guanyl monophosphate (cGMP) concentrations in saliva and the level of NO in breath. The contractile function of the knee extensor muscles was determined via isokinetic dynamometry. RESULTS: No significant changes in salivary NO3-, NO2-, or cGMP or in breath NO were observed in response to either treatment. However, cetylpyridinium-based mouthwash reduced the percentage of NO2- in saliva (16. 9± 10.5% vs. 24.9 ± 13.4%; p=0.0036), supporting compliance with the intervention. Peak torque at velocities of 0-6.28 rad/s was unaffected by mouthwash use. Calculated maximal knee extensor velocity (Vmax) and power (Pmax) were therefore also unchanged. CONCLUSION: Cetylpyridinium-containing mouthwash inhibits reduction of NO3- to NO2- in the oral cavity but does not significantly diminish overall NO bioavailability or impair muscle contractile function in healthy young men and women.

The authors have declared no competing interest.

NCT04095442

EJG was supported by the Diversity Scholars Research Program of the Center for Research and Learning at Indiana University Indianapolis..

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