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Tricyclic Antidepressants and Dry Mouth

There are several possible side effects of tricyclic antidepressants, and dry mouth appears to be one of the most common. Some suggestions on how to improve a dry mouth include sipping water or sugarless drinks often, avoiding drinks with caffeine, and using a humidifier at night.

Tricyclic Antidepressants and Dry Mouth: Suggestions

A dry mouth is one of the common side effects of tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). For people taking tricyclic antidepressants, 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.
     

Tricyclic Antidepressants and Dry Mouth: Summary

If you have a dry mouth while taking
 tricyclic antidepressants and the suggestions above do not help, make sure to talk with your healthcare provider. There is treatment that he or she may be able to recommend, such as artificial saliva. Also, depending on the severity of your dry mouth, he or she may also recommend that you adjust your tricyclic antidepressants dosage or try another depression medicine.

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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