Wellbutrin and Dry Mouth

As with other medications, Wellbutrin (bupropion) can cause a number of side effects. One of the most commonly reported is dry mouth. Clinical studies show that about 27.6 percent of individuals who used Wellbutrin experienced dry mouth, compared to around 18.4 percent of individuals who did not take this medication.

It is not entirely known how Wellbutrin causes this side effect. Although it is suggested that like other antidepressant drugs, the effects of such medication on the brain chemicals can likely affect the function of the gastrointestinal system, including the production of saliva and oral mucus fluids.

Managing Dry Mouth With Wellbutrin

For most people, dry mouth caused by an antidepressant medication often resolve with time, even without treatment. However, there are some things that can help relieve your problems with dry mouth. Some things that can help you manage dry mouth include the following:

• Increase fluid intake, especially water. Although most people are aware of the recommended eight glasses of water per day, only few actually do drink the recommended amount. Taking frequent sips of water can help increase you intake of fluids.
• Eat fruits and drink juice as they can help increase fluid intake.
• Chlorophyll, either in liquid or capsule form, can help. Most health food sections have a good chlorophyll product. However, be sure to consult your healthcare provider about using this health product.
• Using sugarless candy or gum can also help relieve dry mouth by increasing production of saliva.
• Sucking on sugarless candy or hard candy can stimulate saliva flow.
• Use of peppermint essential oil or lemon juice can help minimize or prevent bad breath due to dry mouth.
• Alcohol, caffeine and tobacco can dry out the mouth. It is best to avoid consuming these products.
• As much as possible, avoid spicy or salty foods. Not only do they contribute to the problem, they can also irritate dry mouth.
• It would also help if you breathe through the nose and not through the mouth.

In addition to these suggestions, you should also practice good oral hygiene to maintain a healthy oral cavity. Brush your teeth at least two times a day and visit your dentist regularly. Chronic dry mouth increases the chances of dental cavities.

Usually, these recommendations can effectively manage or treat dry mouth caused by Wellbutrin. However, if this side effect persists or worsens, be sure to contact your healthcare provider for other recommendations.

Your healthcare provider may recommend some treatments to help treat your problem. For instance, some are prescribed with artificial saliva or moisturizing mouth spray. It is also possible for your healthcare provider to adjust your dose of Wellbutrin, if the primary cause of the problem is the use of this medication.