Zyban and Dry Mouth

Some people may experience side effects while taking Zyban, and dry mouth is one of the most commonly reported side effects. Taking the drug along with nicotine replacement products does not appear to increase the risk of this side effect. If you are taking Zyban and dry mouth becomes a problem, your healthcare provider may recommend artificial saliva, adjust your Zyban dosage, or recommend a different treatment for smoking cessation.

 

Zyban and Dry Mouth: An Overview

Dry mouth is one of the most common side effects of Zyban® (bupropion SR). In previous studies, up to 11 percent of people reported dry mouth as one of the Zyban side effects, compared to 5 percent of people who were not taking the drug. Taking Zyban with nicotine replacement products (such as nicotine patches or gum) does not appear to increase the risk of dry mouth.
 

Zyban and Dry Mouth: Recommendations

If you are taking Zyban and dry mouth becomes a problem, there are a number of things that you can do. Some of these suggestions include:
 
  • Sipping water or sugarless drinks often.
     
  • Sipping water or sugarless drinks during meals. This will make chewing and swallowing easier. It may also improve the taste of food.
     
  • Avoiding drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, and some sodas. Caffeine can dry out the mouth.
     
  • Avoiding tobacco and alcohol. They dry out the mouth as well.
     
  • Using a humidifier at night.
     
  • Being aware of spicy or salty foods. These may cause pain in a dry mouth.
     
  • Chewing sugarless gum or sucking on sugarless, hard candy to stimulate saliva flow; cinnamon- or mint-flavored candies are good choices.
     
(Zyban and Dry Mouth Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;