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Cymbalta and Dry Mouth

There are several side effects of Cymbalta, and dry mouth appears to be one of the most common side effects of the medication. In studies, dry mouth was reported more often in people taking Cymbalta for depression compared to those who were taking the medication for neuropathic pain. Some suggestions on improving dry mouth include sipping water or sugarless drinks often, avoiding drinks with caffeine, and using a humidifier at night.

 

Cymbalta and Dry Mouth: An Overview

Dry mouth is one of the most common side effects of Cymbalta® (duloxetine hydrochloride). Studies have shown that up to 18 percent of people reported a dry mouth as one of Cymbalta's side effects. A dry mouth was more commonly seen in people taking Cymbalta for fibromyalgia (18 percent), compared to people taking Cymbalta for depression (15 percent) or diabetic neuropathy pain (12 percent).
 

Cymbalta and Dry Mouth: Recommendations

For people taking Cymbalta, there are some things that you can do to help with a dry mouth.
 Some of these suggestions include:
 
  • Sip water or sugarless drinks often.
     
  • Sip water or sugarless drinks during meals. This will make chewing and swallowing easier. It may also improve the taste of food.
     
  • Avoid drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, and some sodas. Caffeine can dry out the mouth.
     
  • Don't use tobacco or alcohol; they dry out the mouth.
     
  • Use a humidifier at night.
     
  • Be aware of spicy or salty foods. These may cause pain in a dry mouth.
     
  • Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless, hard candy to stimulate saliva flow; cinnamon or mint-flavored candies are good choices.
     
(Cymbalta and Dry Mouth Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;