If you are experiencing symptoms of dry mouth, you may want to determine what type of medications you are taking. Medications are one of the most common causes of this condition. That is both a good thing and a bad thing, though. The problem is, you most likely need those medications to treat another condition you have, such as diabetes, hypertension or even cancer. In some cases, the dry mouth is okay to tolerate if you need those medications. However, in cases where the problem is persistent, speak to your doctor to request a new type of medication due to your symptoms of dry mouth.

Understanding which symptoms of dry mouth are occurring is important. If you are taking any of the following medications, and you have symptoms such as an unquenchable thirst, cracked and dry lips and tongue or a sore throat, you may be experiencing dry mouth.

• Medications used to treat depression and anxiety often have side effects including dry mouth.
• Medications to treat general pain, both over the counter and prescription strength may have dry mouth side effects.
• Many allergy and cold medications make you feel dried out and often have that sticky, dry mouth feeling.
• Medications used to treat hypertension
• Medications for many psychiatric disorders
• Medications for asthma, including some bronchodilators
• Urinary incontinence medications
• Nausea and diarrhea medications.
• Medications to treat acne
• Medications contained within chemotherapy may lead to symptoms of dry mouth.

Many of the mediations that lead to this side effect are able to be switched to others that do not have that negative side effect, depending on the condition. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and they are severe enough, speak to your doctor about switching to a different type of medication or working through the dry mouth by treating that symptom as well.

In many cases, the symptoms of dry mouth are secondary to the symptoms of other conditions. However, when dry mouth becomes so severe or chronic that it causes cracked lips, a dry, cracked mouth and sore throat, it may be necessary to turn to another medication. In some cases, prolonged dry mouth can lead to problems with your teeth and gums, too. In these instances, it is often best to look for an alternative medication that does not cause these symptoms for you but still fits the needs you have for your other medical problems.