It is possible to develop certain side effects while taking Detrol. Dry mouth appears to be the most common side effect, occurring in up to 35 percent of people taking the medication. If you are taking Detrol and dry mouth develops, you can try chewing sugarless gum, avoiding alcohol, and sipping water or sugarless drinks frequently. If it continues, talk to your healthcare provider.
Does Detrol Cause a Dry Mouth?
Dry mouth is a possible side effect of
Detrol® (
tolterodine tartrate), a prescription medication approved for the treatment of an
overactive bladder. Detrol is an anticholinergic medication, and like most anticholinergics, it often causes a dry mouth. In fact, dry mouth is the most common
Detrol side effect. In studies, up to 35 percent of people taking the drug reported having a dry mouth, compared to only 10 percent of people taking a placebo (a "sugar pill" with no active ingredient).
Detrol and Dry Mouth: Recommendations
If you are taking Detrol and dry mouth becomes a problem, you can try some things that may provide relief. Some of these suggestions include the following:
- Avoid alcohol because it can dry out the mouth.
- Use a humidifier at night.
- Be aware of spicy or salty foods, as they may cause pain in a dry mouth.
- Sip water or sugarless drinks frequently throughout the day and 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 most sodas. Caffeine can dry out the mouth.
- Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless hard candy to stimulate saliva flow; cinnamon- or mint-flavored candies are good choices.
It is important to note that severe or prolonged dry mouth can cause dental problems, as saliva helps to protect the teeth from decay. You may need special dental care in such situations.
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