Cardizem CD and Dry Mouth

Dry mouth appears to be a rare but possible side effect of Cardizem CD. If you are taking Cardizem CD and dry mouth occurs, you can try avoiding caffeinated drinks, sipping on water more often, or chewing sugarless gum. If necessary, your healthcare provider can also recommend artificial saliva products to help provide relief.

Cardizem CD Medicine Info

Can Cardizem CD Cause a Dry Mouth?

Dry mouth is one of the possible side effects of Cardizem CD^® (diltiazem hydrochloride). In studies, less than 1 percent of people taking the drug reported experiencing a dry mouth.

Cardizem CD and Dry Mouth: Recommendations

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

Sip water or sugarless drinks often.
Sip water or sugarless drinks during meals. This will make chewing and swallowing easier. It may also improve the taste of food.
Avoid drinks with caffeine, such as coffee, tea, and some sodas. Caffeine can dry out the mouth.
Don't use tobacco or alcohol. They dry out the mouth.
Use a humidifier at night.
Be aware of spicy or salty foods. These 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.

Cardizem CD and Dry Mouth: Final Thoughts

If you develop a dry mouth while taking Cardizem CD and the suggestions in this article do not help, make sure to talk with your healthcare provider.

He or she may be able to recommend other treatment options, such as artificial saliva. Also, depending on how severe your dry mouth is, your healthcare provider may recommend that you adjust your Cardizem CD dosage or try another angina or blood pressure medicine.