I took Salagen for 2 1/2 years starting when I started radiation. I believe it worked because I have fair amount of saliva despite having had one of my major slaiva glands removed. The only side effect I experienced was perspiring for about 5 minutes a half hour after I took it. The tablets were tiny and I took a very low dose 3 times a day. Was allowed up to 6 times a day. The only major problem I had came on a day when the humidity and the temp were both at 100. I had no A/C and was perspiring like crazy. Stopped the pill and problem went away. Since I didn't seem to lose any saliva, I never started taking it again. Try it. If he starts perspiring too much, cut back the dosage. It's worth it to maintain some saliva.