Risperdal and Dry Mouth

A dry mouth is one of the common side effects of Risperdal. Previous clinical studies have shown that up to 13 percent of people experienced a dry mouth while taking Risperdal. If you are taking Risperdal and dry mouth occurs, there are some things you can try, such as sipping water often and avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and caffeinated beverages.

 

Does Risperdal Cause a Dry Mouth?

Risperdal® (risperidone) is a prescription medicine used to treat schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (also known as manic depression), and irritability associated with autism. Like other medicines, it can cause side effects. One of these possible side effects of Risperdal is a dry mouth. Previous clinical studies have shown that up to 13 percent of people reported a dry mouth as one of the side effects of Risperdal.
 

Risperdal and Dry Mouth: Recommendations

If you are taking Risperdal 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 or alcohol; they dry out the mouth.
     
  • Using a humidifier at night.
     
  • Being aware that spicy or salty foods 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.
     
If you have a dry mouth while taking Risperdal and the suggestions above do not help, make sure to talk with your healthcare provider. There is treatment that he or she may be able to recommend, such as artificial saliva. Also, depending on the severity of your dry mouth, he or she may also recommend that you adjust your Risperdal dosage or try another autism, schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder medication.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;