Based on NIH | Can lisinopril cause dry mouth, and what steps should I take if this happens?

Yes lisinopril can be associated with dry mouth for some people, although it’s not among the most common side effects of ACE inhibitors. Dry mouth is specifically listed as a possible side effect when lisinopril is taken in combination with hydrochlorothiazide, and medicines for high blood pressure in general can contribute to dry mouth. ^{[1] [2]} While classic lisinopril side effects more often include cough, dizziness, and changes in kidney function or potassium, medication‑related dry mouth is recognized and may be bothersome enough to address. ^{[3] [2]}

Why lisinopril may cause dry mouth

• Medicines for high blood pressure (antihypertensives), including ACE inhibitors like lisinopril, can reduce saliva production in some users, leading to a “cotton mouth” sensation. ^[2]
• Combination products that include a diuretic (e.g., lisinopril/hydrochlorothiazide) can increase fluid loss and may contribute to mouth dryness and thirst. ^[1]

When to seek medical advice

• If dry mouth is persistent, interferes with eating, speaking, or sleeping, or is accompanied by trouble swallowing, burning sensations, or white patches (which could suggest oral thrush), you should contact your clinician for evaluation. ^[4]
• A healthcare professional may review your medicines, examine your mouth, and, if needed, run tests or adjust your treatment. ^[5]

What you can do right now

Simple daily steps can meaningfully improve symptoms while you and your clinician decide on longer‑term options. ^[6]

• Drink water regularly in small sips throughout the day. ^[7]
• Limit caffeine and alcohol, which can worsen dryness. ^[8]
• Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugar‑free lozenges to stimulate saliva. ^[8]
• Use a humidifier at night and try to breathe through your nose instead of your mouth. ^{[8] [9]}
• Consider over‑the‑counter saliva substitutes or dry‑mouth mouthwashes to moisten and protect oral tissues. ^[9]
• Avoid spicy or very salty foods if they irritate your mouth when it’s dry. ^[8]

Treatment options your clinician may consider

• If a medicine is the likely cause, your clinician may suggest adjusting the dose or switching to an alternative blood pressure medicine, balancing blood pressure control with comfort. ^{[7] [5]}
• For ongoing symptoms despite adjustments, saliva‑stimulating prescription medicines (sialogogues), such as pilocarpine, may be considered in selected cases; these are typically used for significant xerostomia and require medical supervision due to potential side effects. ^{[10] [5]}

Oral health matters

Dry mouth increases the risk of cavities, gum disease, and mouth infections because saliva helps protect teeth and oral tissues. ^[11] Maintaining meticulous oral hygiene, using fluoride toothpaste, and seeing your dentist regularly are especially important if dryness persists. ^[11]

Bottom line

• Lisinopril can be linked to dry mouth, and this is more clearly documented with lisinopril/hydrochlorothiazide and with blood pressure medicines in general. ^{[1] [2]}
• Most cases can be improved with hydration, avoidance of drying triggers, saliva stimulation, and targeted oral care; persistent or severe symptoms warrant a discussion with your clinician about dose changes, medication switches, or prescription sialogogues. ^{[7] [8] [5]}