Dry mouth is a common side effect of tricyclic antidepressants, which block the action of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. When this neurotransmitter is blocked, one of the effects is that you do not produce enough saliva to keep your mouth wet. Dry mouth can make eating and speaking difficult. It can also contribute to dental problems.
If you're struggling with dry mouth, there are a few things you can do to make things more comfortable for yourself:
- Sip water regularly.
- Suck on ice chips.
- Chew sugarless gum.
- Suck on sugarless hard candy.
- Breathe through your nose, not your mouth.
- Use a humidifier while sleeping.
- Avoid caffeine, tobacco and alcohol, which tend to dry out the mouth.
- Brush your teeth twice a day.
- Visit your dentist regularly to help prevent tooth decay.
- Talk with your doctor about saliva substitutes.
Source:
"Dry Mouth." MayoClinic.com. April 6, 2007. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. Accessed: Feb. 21, 2008.
