Nicorandil-induced oral ulceration: report of 3 cases and review of the Japanese literature

Nicorandil-induced oral ulceration in 3 Japanese patients is reported. The patients were men aged 86, 81, and 91 years. Ulcers of 15, 10, and 12 mm in diameter, respectively, were observed at the border of all of the patients' tongues. These were painful and persistent but not indurated. Irritation by the teeth or dentures was not evident. They had been administered nicorandil at a dose of 15 mg for 22, 54, and 90 months, respectively; therefore, ulceration induced by nicorandil was suspected. In consultation with the doctor, nicorandil was withdrawn. The ulcers disappeared 5, 8, and 9 weeks, respectively, after the cessation of nicorandil. No relapse of the ulcer was noted. The findings suggest that these were the examples of nicorandil-induced oral ulceration.