Sudafed may cause dry mouth, but it is also one of the most popular over-the-counter drugs consumers reach for when in need of relief for sinus conditions, allergies and common colds. Sudafed, also known as pseudoephedrine in its generic form, is formulated to provide relief from colds, allergies and sinus congestion. Like most cold products, Sudafed has a list of common side effects, including Xerostomia, which is also known as cotton mouth or dry mouth.
While it is convenient to be able to treat one’s cold symptoms without going to the doctor, it is also necessary to understand most medications have some sort of side effects. While treating cold symptoms and providing a certain degree of relief, Sudafed causes dry mouth, which is also known as Xerostomia. In the case of Sudafed causing dry mouth, this particular side effect occurs as a direct result of the ability of Sudafed to reduce the output of the salivary glands. As a result of the reduction of salivary flow, one can experience dry mouth and bad breath. Not only does pseudoephedrine, also known as Sudafed, cause dry mouth, but in the case of the elderly, it may exacerbate the conditions of dry mouth. It is common for the elderly to have a tendency to suffer from Xerostomia. One of the only remaining generic over-the-counter generic decongestants, Sudafed should only be taken after clearance from one’s physician.
So what can you do if Sudafed causes dry mouth but the product is also effective in treating symptoms related to cold and allergies? If taking Sudafed causes dry mouth while treating cold symptoms, there are a few things one can do to relieve the feelings of dry mouth. One of the top suggestions at relieving dry mouth is to drink a lot of sugarless fluids. Another suggestion to individuals for whom Sudafed causes dry mouth is to chew sugarless gum, because it promotes saliva production. Xylitol products such as mints, candy and gum are also quite effective at stimulating and promoting saliva production. For dedicated users of the over-the-counter decongestant, even a simple switch of toothpastes can help to stimulate salivary production. PreviDent 5000 is a neutral, sodium fluoride toothpaste available from Colgate. If Sudafed causes dry mouth during the time of year you battle allergies, sinuses and colds, just know there are a few simple ways to battle dry mouth.
