Lamictal and Dry Mouth

In clinical studies on Lamictal, dry mouth was experienced by up to 6 percent of people taking it for bipolar disorder. If you develop this particular side effect, you may obtain relief by sipping water often and avoiding caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol. If you continue to experience dry mouth with Lamictal, your healthcare provider may recommend artificial saliva or switch you to another medication.

Lamictal Drug Information

Lamictal and Dry Mouth: An Overview

Dry mouth is a possible side effect of Lamictal^® (lamotrigine). In studies, up to 6 percent of people taking the drug for bipolar disorder reported having a dry mouth. However, dry mouth was not reported as a possible side effect in people taking Lamictal for epilepsy.

Lamictal and Dry Mouth: Suggestions

If you are taking Lamictal and dry mouth occurs, there are some things that you can do to that may provide relief. Some of these suggestions include the following:

Avoid drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, and some sodas. Caffeine can dry out the mouth.
Don't use tobacco or alcohol, because they dry out the mouth.
Use a humidifier at night.
Sip water or sugarless drinks often to help stay hydrated.
Sip water or sugarless drinks during meals. This will make chewing and swallowing easier; it may also improve the taste of food.
Be aware of spicy or salty foods; they may cause pain in a dry mouth
Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless hard candy to stimulate saliva flow; cinnamon- or mint-flavored candies are good choices.

Lamictal and Dry Mouth: Final Thoughts

If you develop dry mouth while taking Lamictal and the suggestions provided in this article do not help, talk with your healthcare provider. He or she may be able to recommend other treatments, such as artificial saliva. Also, depending on how severe your dry mouth is, he or she may recommend that you adjust your Lamictal dosage or try another medicine for epilepsy or bipolar disorder.