The Possible Impact of Zinc-Enriched Multivitamins on Treatment-Naïve Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis Patients

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Recurrent aphthous stomatitis is a common oral mucosal disorder characterized by painful ulcerations and frequent recurrences, which can significantly impair quality of life. This study explores the efficacy of zinc-enriched multivitamin supplementation (ZnVita, containing 22.5 mg of elemental zinc) for the treatment of recurrent aphthous stomatitis in treatment-naïve patients, aiming to diminish the reliance on immunomodulatory drugs. Methods: Conducted as a retrospective observational study at a tertiary referral hospital from 2013 to 2023, we analyzed 201 patients who received ZnVita daily for a minimum duration of one month as their initial management. Patients who were using systemic immunomodulating agents or met the diagnostic criteria for Behçet's disease were excluded. Results: Of the 201 patients, 95 presented with an oral ulcer alone and 106 exhibited additional symptoms associated with Behçet's disease. Efficacy analysis was conducted on 155 patients due to follow-up loss or incomplete data. Among them, 58.7% (91/155) showed partial or significant responses. Patients with BD-related symptoms were significantly more prevalent among non-responders (64.1%, 41/64) compared to responders (42.9%, 39/91), with a statistically significant difference (p = 0.009). Treatment was well-tolerated, with mild gastrointestinal adverse events reported in only 2.5% of cases. Conclusions: These results suggest that zinc-enriched multivitamin supplementation offers a beneficial and safe initial treatment alternative for a considerable proportion of treatment-naïve recurrent aphthous stomatitis patients, especially those without concurrent symptoms of Behçet's disease, showcasing its potential in reducing the future need for immunomodulatory treatments.