Some medications can leave you with a dry mouth. Learn which medications may cause it, what to look for, and simple ways to manage the symptoms.
Have you noticed that your mouth feels unusually dry, sticky, or uncomfortable after starting a new medication? You may be experiencing dry mouth, also known as xerostomia. Dry mouth happens when your mouth doesn't produce enough saliva. While dehydration, stress, and certain health conditions can cause it, it’s also common for medications to cause dry mouth as a side effect.
Here are seven types of medications that may contribute to dry mouth, along with some simple ways to manage it.
Anticholinergic medications work by blocking certain signals in the nervous system. One of those signals normally helps your body produce saliva, so blocking it can leave you with a dry mouth.
These medications are used to treat a number of conditions, including overactive bladder, allergies, and some gastrointestinal issues. If you've recently started an anticholinergic medication and suddenly feel like you're reaching for your water bottle more often, your medication may be part of the reason.
Some antidepressants can cause dry mouth, too. Tricyclic antidepressants are particularly known for this side effect, but other types of antidepressants can also contribute to decreased saliva production.
If you notice a dry mouth after starting a new antidepressant or changing your dose, don't stop taking it on your own. Instead, bring it up with your healthcare provider or your local Realo pharmacist. They can review your medications with you and discuss ways to manage the side effects.
Stimulant medications used to manage ADHD can sometimes leave you feeling a little parched. These medications affect activity in the central nervous system, and dry mouth is one possible side effect.
If you've noticed increased thirst or a dry, sticky feeling in your mouth since starting an ADHD medication, it's worth mentioning to your healthcare provider.
Opioid medications are often prescribed to help manage moderate to severe pain, and dry mouth is one possible side effect.
Because opioids affect the nervous system, they can influence saliva production and leave your mouth feeling dry. If you're taking an opioid and experiencing persistent dry mouth or any other concerning side effects, schedule a medication review with one of our friendly, knowledgeable pharmacists.
Benzodiazepines are medications that may be prescribed for conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, and certain seizure disorders. Some medications in this class can contribute to dry mouth.
Because people may take multiple medications at once, it's also possible for side effects to become more noticeable when several medicines have similar effects.
Some antipsychotic medications can reduce saliva production and cause dry mouth. These medications are used to treat several mental health conditions, including schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, among others.
Not everyone who takes an antipsychotic will experience dry mouth, and side effects can vary. If you're experiencing persistent dryness, your healthcare provider or pharmacist can help you determine whether your medication may be contributing.
Some heart and blood pressure medications can come with dry mouth as an unexpected side effect. Certain diuretics and beta-blockers may play a role, so if your mouth has been feeling unusually dry, our friendly pharmacists at Realo Drugs can help you get to the bottom of it.
Dry mouth may be medication-related if it appears after starting a new medicine, increasing a dose, or adding another medication to your routine. If you're wondering which medications cause dry mouth, think back to when your symptoms began.
Common signs include:
Because saliva helps protect your teeth and gums, extended periods of dry mouth could also increase your risk of cavities and other oral-health problems.
Dry mouth may seem like a minor inconvenience, but persistent symptoms can affect your comfort and your oral health. Depending on the situation, your healthcare provider may be able to adjust your treatment, and your local Realo pharmacist can recommend strategies or products to help manage the side effect.
At Realo Drugs, we're here to help you understand your medications and provide care beyond your prescription. If you have questions about side effects, drug interactions, or ways to make your medications work better for you, stop by your local Realo Drugs to speak with one of our pharmacists.