Colazal and Dry Mouth

Several side effects may occur with the use of Colazal, and dry mouth is possible. If you experience this side effect while taking the drug, you can try sipping water or sugarless drinks often (including during meals) or sucking on sugarless hard candy, among other things. If you continue to experience dry mouth with Colazal, your healthcare provider may recommend other treatments or switch you to a different medication.

 

An Overview of Colazal and Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is a common side effect of Colazal® (balsalazide disodium). In previous clinical studies, up to 1 percent of people taking the drug reported dry mouth as one of the Colazal side effects.
 

Recommendations for Colazal and Dry Mouth

If you are taking Colazal and dry mouth becomes a problem, there are some 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 because 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.
     

Final Thoughts on Colazal and Dry Mouth

If you develop dry mouth while taking Colazal and the suggestions listed in this article do not help, talk with your healthcare provider. He or she may be able to recommend treatment options, such as artificial saliva. Also, depending on how severe the dry mouth is, he or she may recommend that you adjust your Colazal dosage or try a different ulcerative colitis medicine.
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;