Flexeril and Dry Mouth

Clinical studies on Flexeril and dry mouth have shown that up to 32 percent of people taking the medication experienced a dry mouth. If you are taking Flexeril and dry mouth occurs, you may be able to help it by sipping water often and avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and caffeinated beverages, among other things. If your dry mouth continues to be a problem, your healthcare provider may suggest other treatment or recommend a different medication.

Flexeril Drug Information

Does Flexeril Cause a Dry Mouth?

A dry mouth is one of the most common side effects of Flexeril^® (cyclobenzaprine hydrochloride). In clinical studies, up to 32 percent of people taking Flexeril reported having a dry mouth, compared to just 7 percent of people taking a placebo (a "sugar pill" with no active ingredient).

Flexeril and Dry Mouth: Suggestions

Many medications (including Flexeril) can cause a dry mouth. However, most people can deal with this side effect by following a few simple suggestions. Some of these suggestions include:

Sipping water or sugarless drinks often.
Being aware of spicy or salty foods, as these foods may cause pain in a dry mouth.
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 many sodas. Caffeine can dry out the mouth.
Avoiding tobacco or alcohol. These substances dry out the mouth.
Using a humidifier at night.
Chewing sugarless gum or sucking on sugarless hard candy to stimulate saliva flow; cinnamon- or mint-flavored candies are good choices.

It is important to note that a dry mouth can be more than just a bothersome side effect. A severely dry mouth can cause dental problems (because a dry mouth increases the risk of infections and decay). If you have tried these suggestions and still have a dry mouth, please contact your healthcare provider (or your dentist).

(Flexeril and Dry Mouth Continued: Page 2)