Doxepin and Dry Mouth

A number of side effects may potentially occur with the use of doxepin, and dry mouth is one of the most common. If you are taking doxepin and dry mouth occurs, you can try avoiding drinks with caffeine, sipping water or sugarless drinks often, and chewing sugarless gum. If dry mouth continues, let your healthcare provider know so he or she can recommend other treatments, such as artificial saliva.

Doxepin and Dry Mouth: An Overview

Dry mouth is one of the common side effects of doxepin hydrochloride (Sinequan®, Silenor®), although the exact percentage of patients experiencing this side effect is unknown. In fact, dry mouth is a common symptom of all tricyclic antidepressants, including doxepin.
 
Dry mouth is probably more common with high-dose doxepin (Sinequan) used to treat anxiety and depression than with low-dose doxepin (Silenor) used to treat insomnia.
 

Doxepin and Dry Mouth: Recommendations

For people taking doxepin, 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.
     
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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