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Zoloft and Dry Mouth

There is a relationship between Zoloft and dry mouth -- dry mouth is one of the most common side effects of Zoloft. In clinical trials, dry mouth was most commonly seen in people taking Zoloft for depression. If you experience dry mouth while on Zoloft, try drinking water more frequently, using a humidifier at night, and avoiding caffeinated beverages.

 

Zoloft and Dry Mouth: An Overview

Dry mouth is one of the most common Zoloft® side effects. A dry mouth in people taking Zoloft (sertraline hydrochloride) occurs in up to 16 percent of people. In clinical trials, dry mouth was most commonly seen in people taking Zoloft for depression -- 16 percent of such people experienced this side effect of Zoloft. It was least common in those taking Zoloft for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and was reported in 6 percent of those people.
 

Zoloft and Dry Mouth: Recommendations

If you are taking Zoloft and experience dry mouth, there are some things that you can do that may help.
 Some of these suggestions include the following:
 
  • 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.
     
(Zoloft 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;