Does Zanaflex Cause Dry Mouth?
Unfortunately, dry mouth is a common side effect of many medications, including Zanaflex®
hydrochloride). During clinical studies, up to 88 percent of people given a single dose of 16 mg of Zanaflex, which is a rather high dosage, experienced dry mouth. This reaction is less common among people taking lower dosages.
Recommendations for Treating Dry Mouth With Zanaflex
For people taking Zanaflex, dry mouth symptoms can be relieved somewhat by making a few simple changes. Some of these suggestions include:
- Sip water or sugarless drinks often.
- Sip water or sugarless drinks during meals. This will make chewing and swallowing easier; it may also improve the taste of food.
- Avoid drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, and some sodas. Caffeine can dry out the mouth.
- Don't use tobacco or alcohol, because they dry out the mouth.
- Use a humidifier at night.
- Be aware of spicy or salty foods, because they may cause pain in a dry mouth.
- Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless hard candy to stimulate saliva flow; cinnamon- or mint-flavored candies are good choices.