Enablex and Dry Mouth

A number of side effects have been reported with Enablex, and dry mouth appears to be the most common. In clinical studies, up to 35.3 percent of people taking the medication reported having a dry mouth. If you are taking Enablex and dry mouth develops, you can try avoiding alcohol, chewing sugarless gum, or using a humidifier at night.

 

Does Enablex Cause Dry Mouth?

Dry mouth is the most common side effect of Enablex® (darifenacin), a prescription medication used to treat overactive bladder symptoms. Enablex is an anticholinergic medication, and like most anticholinergics, it often causes a dry mouth. In studies, up to 35.3 percent of people taking the drug reported having a dry mouth, compared to only 8.2 percent of people taking a placebo (a "sugar pill" with no active ingredient).
 
It is important to note that a dry mouth is more common with the higher Enablex dosage (15 mg daily) than with the lower dosage (7.5 mg daily).
 

Enablex and Dry Mouth: Recommendations

If you are taking Enablex and dry mouth becomes a problem, there are some things that you can do that may provide relief. Some of these suggestions include the following:
 
  • Use a humidifier at night.
     
  • Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless hard candy to stimulate saliva flow; cinnamon- or mint-flavored candies are good choices.
     
  • Avoid alcohol because it can dry out the mouth.
     
  • Be aware of spicy or salty foods, since 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.
     
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.
 
(Enablex 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;