Does Toviaz Cause a Dry Mouth?
Toviaz™ (
fesoterodine fumarate) is a prescription medication used to treat
overactive bladder symptoms. It is an anticholinergic medication, and like most anticholinergics, it often causes a dry mouth. In fact, dry mouth was the most common
Toviaz side effect reported during clinical trials.
In studies, up to 34.6 percent of people taking the drug reported having a dry mouth, compared to only 7 percent of people taking a placebo (a "sugar pill" with no active ingredient). Additionally, up to 2.3 percent of people taking Toviaz experience a dry throat, which may be somewhat related to a dry mouth.
Dry Mouth and Toviaz: Recommendations
If you are taking Toviaz 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:
- Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless hard candy to stimulate saliva flow; cinnamon- or mint-flavored candies are good choices (avoid gum or candy with sugar, as they can promote tooth decay).
- Use a humidifier at night, especially if you live in a dry climate.
- Avoid alcohol, as it can dry out the mouth.
- Be aware that spicy or salty foods 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.
- Caffeine can dry out the mouth for some people. Try avoiding drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, and most sodas.
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.
