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Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
Oct 22, 2018 Rob asked My question is about lisinopril. I have been taking it for about three years. My questions are as follows: Does lisinopril cause dry MOUTH? I know it causes dry cough, but how about dry mouth? Can it take awhile for dry mouth to show up? If indeed it is the lisinopril, is there an alternative that will not cause dry mouth? If I get off the lisinopril, how long before the dry mouth will go away? At a glance Lisinopril, an ACE-Inhibitor, is well-known to cause dry mouth. This side effect may resolve on its own, but there are alternative therapies available that may be better tolerated. Answer As you stated, lisinopril, an ACE-Inhibitor (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor), is well known to cough a dry cough. What is less well known is that it is also associated with xerostomia, also known as 'dry mouth'.Dry mouth is listed as a side effect in the prescribing information for Zestril (the brand name of lisinopril), although the incidence is relatively low.Nevertheless, a variety of studies have reported that dry mouth is a potential side effect of all ACE-Inhibitors.Lisinopril Dry MouthDry mouth most commonly results from an inadequate flow of saliva, but the exact mechanism behind how lisinopril causes it isn't well known. While certainly bothersome, there are additional complications of dry mouth, which include:Increased incidence of dental cariesHalitosis (bad breath)ThrushTrouble chewing and swallowing foodDifficulty speaking or falling asleepUnfortunately, it can sometimes be difficult to find alternative medications that may be better tolerated when it comes to reducing the incidence of dry mouth. In fact, studies have reported that nearly 80% of the most commonly prescribed medications can cause dry mouth. The most common culprits include:AnticholinergicsAntidepressantsNSAIDs (e.g. ibuprofen)OpioidsBenzodiazepinesAntihypertensives (e.g. beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and ACE inhibitors)What To Do? Aside from dose adjustments or a change in medication, there are some strategies that may help reduce the incidence of dry mouth from lisinopril: Take it earlier in the day as less saliva is produced in the evening. Be sure to speak with your doctor first however before changing the time of administration. Avoid alcohol-containing mouthwashes or beverages.Avoid caffeine and tobacco.Drink fluids throughout the day.Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candy can stimulate salivation.Add-on medications (e.g. Evoxac, Salagen) may help increase saliva production. Additional Information To answer the questions in your inquiry specifically: Does Lisinopril Cause Dry Mouth: Yes, it can
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