What causes dry mouth (xerostomia), including medication-related dryness?

Many medicines can cause dry mouth. Examples include some allergy medicines, antidepressants, bladder medicines, and blood pressure medicines. Taking several medicines that cause dryness may add to the problem. Over-the-counter products and supplements matter too, so include them in your medication list.

Other causes include dehydration, mouth breathing, and tobacco use. Sjogren's syndrome is an immune system condition that can affect saliva and tear production. Diabetes and radiation treatment to the head and neck can also be linked with dryness. Dry mouth is not an unavoidable part of getting older, though older adults often take medicines that contribute to it.

A licensed physician or dentist in your state can look at when symptoms started and whether they followed a new medicine or dose change. Do not skip doses or stop treatment without advice. If a medicine contributes to dryness, your prescriber may consider a different dose or treatment. Results vary. Finding the cause may require a medical visit, dental exam, or tests based on your symptoms.