Side Effects of Zoloft & Dry Mouth

Are you being treated for depression? If so, chances are you are suffering with the annoying side effect of dry or cotton mouth. The technical name for this is Xerostomia and sometimes even mass quantities of water can not calm the excessive thirst. Here are some tips to help this irritating side effect.

Function

Zoloft is an antidepressant in the category of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, known as SSRI's. Zoloft is used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, post traumatic stress syndrome and obsessive-compulsive disorders. It does have some side effects such as drowsiness, nausea, decreased sex drive, weakness, appetite changes and dry mouth.

Prevention/Solution

Whether you are taking antidepressants like Zoloft or another medication that causes dry or cotton mouth, try the following:

Minimize consumption of caffeine, limiting coffee, tea and sodas.
Tobacco and alcohol dry the mouth, avoid them..
Drink plenty of water and sugar-free drinks to stay hydrated. Add lemon to help quench thirst. Cut down on spicy or salty foods; they will increase your thirst.
Chew sugarless gum or sugarless hard candy to stimulate saliva.
Sleep with a humidifier on in the bedroom.

Considerations

The following remedies may help in combating dry mouth caused by Zoloft or anti depressants:

Gargle with Biotene, an alcohol-free mouthwash that is very helpful in combating dry mouth.
Try Mouth Kote, a fake saliva that can also be found at the drug store.
Oasis, another mouthwash for cotton mouth that comes in a pocket size spray bottle.
Lemon flavored glycerin swab sticks, that are often used on chemo patients are available at your drug store.
Lemon hard candies and suckers are also helpful for reviving the mouth.
Peppermint candies and other sugar free candies will also help keep saliva flowing.

Warning

If these suggestions don't work to relieve your dry mouth issues as a side effect to Zoloft, consult your physician as the dosage may need to be changed.

If you are showing any of these side effects from taking Zoloft, call your doctor immediately: seizure, tremors, shivering, muscle stiffness, balance or coordination issues, increased agitation, confusion, sweating or rapid heartbeat.

Expert Insight

If you are tiring of plain water, try using some sugar-free drink mixes to add to your water. Some even include additional vitamins. Add some fruit slices or even eat more fruit. Fruits contain a good deal of juice that will refresh your mouth and taste buds.