Top 10 Medications That Cause Dry Mouth

1) Antihistamines (for allergies & colds)

Why they dry you out: Many antihistamines also block acetylcholine (anticholinergic effect), reducing saliva. Ada Association
Examples: Diphenhydramine, cetirizine, loratadine. GoodRx
What to do: Ask about non-drying alternatives or daytime, non-sedating options; use saliva-stimulating strategies below. Mayo Clinic

2) Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, bupropion)

Why: Many antidepressants decrease salivary flow; TCAs are notably anticholinergic. Ada Association
Examples: Sertraline/fluoxetine (SSRIs), venlafaxine/duloxetine (SNRIs), amitriptyline (TCA), bupropion. Distance Learning and Telehealth
What to do: Never stop abruptly. Discuss dose timing, alternative agents, or adjuncts for saliva support. Mayo Clinic

3) Decongestants & Cold Remedies

Why: Sympathomimetic agents (e.g., pseudoephedrine) reduce moisture in mucous membranes. Ada Association
Examples: Pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine; many OTC combo cold tablets. Distance Learning and Telehealth
What to do: Consider saline rinses or non-decongestant options when appropriate. Mayo Clinic

4) Blood-Pressure Medicines (select classes)

Why: Several antihypertensives—including diuretics, beta-blockers, and centrally acting agents—are associated with dry mouth. Ada Association+1
Examples: Hydrochlorothiazide (diuretic), metoprolol (beta-blocker), clonidine (central alpha-agonist). Distance Learning and Telehealth
What to do: Don’t change BP meds without guidance; ask if an alternative class is reasonable. Mayo Clinic

5) Bladder-Control Medicines (antimuscarinics)

Why: These directly block muscarinic receptors—saliva falls as a result. NIDCR
Examples: Oxybutynin, tolterodine, solifenacin. GoodRx
What to do: Dose adjustments, newer agents, or supportive measures may help. Mayo Clinic

6) Opioid Pain Relievers

Why: Opioids can slow salivary gland activity and contribute to dehydration. Mayo Clinic
Examples: Hydrocodone, oxycodone, morphine. GoodRx
What to do: Discuss non-opioid options when appropriate and increase saliva-friendly habits. Mayo Clinic

7) Anti-Anxiety & Sedative Medicines

Why: Medications used for anxiety and sleep (e.g., benzodiazepines) are commonly linked with dry mouth. Mayo Clinic+1
Examples: Alprazolam, lorazepam, diazepam. GoodRx
What to do: Review timing and necessity with your prescriber; use non-drug anxiety strategies where possible. Mayo Clinic

8) Muscle Relaxants

Why: Central and anticholinergic effects can suppress salivary flow. Ada Association
Examples: Cyclobenzaprine, tizanidine. Distance Learning and Telehealth
What to do: If used at night, counter the morning “cottonmouth” with the relief tips below. Mayo Clinic

9) Asthma/COPD Bronchodilators (select agents)

Why: Certain inhaled bronchodilators may contribute to oral dryness. Rinsing after inhalers helps. Distance Learning and Telehealth
Examples: Albuterol, formoterol. Distance Learning and Telehealth
What to do: Use a spacer if appropriate and rinse mouth after use. Distance Learning and Telehealth

10) The Non-Medication You’re Probably Dealing With: Dehydration (incl. caffeine, alcohol, mouth-breathing)

Even without medicines, mild dehydration, caffeinated drinks, alcohol, or anxious mouth-breathing can make your mouth feel desert-dry. These are everyday triggers for nearly everyone at some point. Mayo Clinic+1

 

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Quick note: Nothing here is medical advice. If dry mouth is severe, persistent, or started after a new prescription, talk with your clinician before changing any medication. Mayo Clinic and NIDCR both recommend evaluating medicines as a leading cause. Mayo Clinic+1