Antimuscarinics in Older People: Dry Mouth and Beyond

Dent Update. 2016 Mar;43(2):186-8, 191. doi: 10.12968/denu.2016.43.2.186.

Abstract

Many common prescription and over-the-counter medications have antimuscarinic effects. Antimuscarinics are a well recognized cause of dry mouth, with potential to cause other physical and cognitive adverse effects. A comprehensive medication review in a patient presenting with dry mouth can lead to overall health improvements. Scoring systems can be helpful in identifying antimuscarinic drugs and their adverse effects. CPD/Clinical Relevance: Antimuscarinic drug use is prevalent and a common cause of dry mouth. Older people are particularly susceptible to antimuscarinic adverse effects.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adrenergic Uptake Inhibitors / adverse effects
  • Aged
  • Amitriptyline / adverse effects
  • Anti-Ulcer Agents / adverse effects
  • Drug Interactions
  • Humans
  • Interprofessional Relations
  • Male
  • Mandelic Acids / adverse effects
  • Medication Therapy Management
  • Muscarinic Antagonists / adverse effects*
  • Polypharmacy
  • Ranitidine / adverse effects
  • Urological Agents / adverse effects
  • Xerostomia / chemically induced*

Substances

  • Adrenergic Uptake Inhibitors
  • Anti-Ulcer Agents
  • Mandelic Acids
  • Muscarinic Antagonists
  • Urological Agents
  • Amitriptyline
  • Ranitidine
  • oxybutynin