Does Ditropan Cause a Dry Mouth?
Dry mouth is a possible side effect of
Ditropan® (
oxybutynin chloride), a prescription medication used for the treatment of
bladder problems. Anticholinergic medications like Ditropan often cause a dry mouth. In fact, dry mouth is the most common Ditropan side effect. In studies, up to 71.4 percent of people taking Ditropan reported having a dry mouth.
Ditropan and Dry Mouth: Recommendations
If you are taking Ditropan and dry mouth occurs, there are some things that you can do that may provide relief. Some of these suggestions include the following:
- Be aware of spicy or salty foods because they 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.
- Sip water or sugarless drinks frequently during 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.
- Avoid alcohol because it can dry out the mouth.
- Use a humidifier at night.
Dry mouth is a common but uncomfortable side effect of Ditropan. 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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