Dry Mouth: Causes, Medications, and What You Can Do

When your mouth feels like cotton, you’re not just thirsty—you might be dealing with dry mouth, a condition where saliva production drops too low, making it hard to speak, swallow, or even taste food. Also known as xerostomia, it’s not a disease, but a signal—often from something you’re taking.

Many everyday drugs cause dry mouth, and you might not even realize it. antihistamines, used for allergies, colds, or sleep, block the chemicals that trigger saliva flow. Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen? Usually fine, but when mixed with other meds, they can stack up. Even common blood pressure pills, antidepressants, and muscle relaxants can turn your mouth into a desert. If you’re on more than one prescription, the risk multiplies. It’s not just about drinking more water—it’s about understanding what’s stopping your body from making saliva in the first place.

Dehydration plays a role too, but it’s rarely the whole story. People with diabetes, autoimmune conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome, or those undergoing radiation for head and neck cancer often struggle with dry mouth long-term. But for most, it’s the meds. And here’s the thing: if you’re taking something that causes dry mouth, you might also be at higher risk for cavities, gum disease, or mouth infections. Saliva isn’t just for comfort—it’s your mouth’s natural cleaner and protector. When it’s gone, bacteria run wild.

You don’t have to live with it. Simple fixes like sugar-free gum, sipping water through the day, or using a humidifier at night help. But the real solution? Knowing which drugs are the culprits. Some antihistamines like loratadine or cetirizine are gentler than older ones like diphenhydramine. Some blood pressure meds are less likely to dry you out than others. And if you’re on multiple prescriptions, it’s worth asking your doctor or pharmacist: Could any of these be making my mouth feel like sandpaper? You’re not imagining it. There’s a reason for it—and there are ways to fix it.

Below, you’ll find real, practical advice from people who’ve been there—how certain medications trigger dry mouth, what alternatives exist, and how to protect your oral health without stopping the drugs you need.