Xerostomia (dry mouth), is a serious dental problem affecting millions of people.
Saliva has antibacterial properties and when we don’t have enough of it we can suffer
from increased tooth decay and gum disease. Additionally, dry mouth makes it difficult for denture wearers to tolerate their appliances and affects our ability to taste the foods we enjoy.
According to a study by Clinical Research Associates, of the top 20 most prescribed drugs in the U. S. in 2010, the following 15 have been associated with Xerostomia:
- Hydrocodone/Acetaminophen – a narcotic
- Lisinopril (Prinivil,Zestril) – an antihypertensive
- Simvastatin (Zocor) – an antiperlipidemic to fight cholesterol
- Amlodipine (Norvasc) – an antihypertensive
- Alprazolam (Xanax) – an anti-anxiety medication
- Hydrochlorothiazide – a diuretic
- Omeprazole (Prilosec) – an anti-ulcer agent
- Atorvastatin calcium (Lipitor)– an antihyperlipidemic to fight cholesterol
- Furosemide (Lasix) – a diuretic
- Metoprolol Tartrate (Lopressor) – an antihypertensive
- Sertraline HCL (Zoloft) – an antidepressant
- Metoprolol Succinate (Toprol) – an antihypertensive
- Zolpidem (Ambien) – a sedative/hypnotic
- Oxycodone/Acetaminophen (Percocet) – a narcotic
- Citalopram Hydrobromide (Celexa) – an antidepressant
The average 60-year-old in this country is taking at least three prescription medications daily. If you believe you suffer from drug-induced Xerostomia or just feel like you have a dry mouth in general, ask us about it. There are many treatments available to help with this potentially serious problem.
Any questions? Don’t hesitate to contact me or the office, Dr. Laurence Stone in Doylestown, PA, today to schedule your next appointment and we can talk more about this. See you soon!
