What is the appropriate treatment for drug-induced gingival enlargement caused by nifedipine?

The appropriate treatment for drug-induced gingival enlargement caused by nifedipine is to change or reduce the dose of the drug. Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker often used to manage hypertension and angina, but it can lead to gingival hyperplasia as a side effect. Adjusting the medication—either by reducing its dosage or switching to an alternative medication that does not have this side effect—can help alleviate the gingival enlargement.

When the dosage is reduced or the medication is changed, the body has a chance to normalize its response, which may lead to a decrease in the gum tissue swelling over time. Close monitoring and an evaluation by healthcare professionals are essential during this process to ensure that blood pressure remains controlled and that the patient’s overall health is managed appropriately.

The other choices do not address the underlying cause of the gingival enlargement effectively. Increasing the dosage would likely exacerbate the condition rather than alleviate it. Tooth extraction would not be a suitable intervention for a condition caused by medication, and prescribing antibiotics does not target the issue of drug-induced gingival hyperplasia directly. Therefore, modifying the drug regimen is the most effective and appropriate course of action.