Provigil and Dry Mouth

There are many possible side effects of Provigil, and dry mouth appears to be one of them. This side effect was reported in up to 4 percent of people taking the medication during clinical studies. If you are taking Provigil and dry mouth occurs, you can try sipping on water or sugarless drinks often, avoiding caffeinated drinks, and avoiding tobacco or alcohol.

 

Provigil and Dry Mouth: An Overview

Dry mouth is one of the possible side effects of Provigil® (modafinil). In studies, up to 4 percent of people taking the drug reported having a dry mouth, compared to just 2 percent of people taking a placebo (a "sugar pill" with no active ingredient).
 

Provigil and Dry Mouth: Recommendations

If you experience a dry mouth while taking Provigil, there are some things that you can do to help. Some of these suggestions include:
 
  • Sip water or sugarless drinks often, including 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 because these substances dry out the mouth.
     
  • Consider trying a humidifier at night.
     
  • Be aware of spicy or salty foods, which can 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.
     
A dry mouth can be more than just a bother. A dry mouth that is severe or lasts for a long time can lead to dental problems, since saliva helps protect the teeth. If your dry mouth seems to be severe or does not respond to the above suggestions, please speak with your healthcare provider or dentist.
 
(Provigil and Dry Mouth Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;