An Investigation on Gingival Hyperplasia Induced by Nifedipine

Statement of Problem: In recent years, numerous reports have been presented in the literature, about gingival overgrowth induced by Nifedipine- a calcium antagonist- prescribed for hypertension and certain types of angina. Purpose: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the prevalence rate of Nifedipine induced gingival hyperplasia in patients and its probable relationship with age, gender, plaque score and drug consumption period. Materials and Methods: The study was on 200 patients with heart disease. The gingival condition of 100 patients under Nifedipine treatment was compared with 100 controls treated with other hypertension drugs. Comparison of variables in study and control groups and also between patients with and without gingival hyperplasia was done using 2 and t- student tests. Results: The prevalence rate of Nifedipine- induced gingival hyperplasia, among experimental patients, was 17%, while it was not observed among control ones. Oral examination revealed gingival overgrowth as a lobular or nodular enlargement on interdental papilla located on anterior interproximal regions. Conclusion: In this study, there was a significant relationship between gingival inflammation resulting from dental plaque and drug dosage, with hyperplasia.