Is Thirst a Side Effect of Lexapro? Understanding Xerostomia

October 12, 2025 •

4 min read

Up to 46% of patients taking antidepressants experience dry mouth [1.3.1]. For those prescribed Lexapro (escitalopram), the question often arises: is thirst a side effect of Lexapro? Yes, it is a recognized symptom [1.2.3, 1.2.5].

Quick Summary

Increased thirst and dry mouth are common side effects of Lexapro (escitalopram) [1.2.3, 1.6.2]. This occurs due to the medication's impact on saliva production, but it is typically manageable with simple strategies.

Key Points

Is Thirst a Side Effect?: Yes, increased thirst and dry mouth (xerostomia) are common side effects of Lexapro (escitalopram) [1.2.3, 1.2.5].
The Cause: It's caused by a reduction in saliva production, linked to the medication's minimal but present effect on receptors that control salivation [1.4.2, 1.8.1].
Duration: For many users, this side effect is temporary and lessens within a few weeks of starting the medication as the body adjusts [1.9.4].
Management: Simple strategies like sipping water, chewing sugar-free gum, avoiding caffeine, and using a humidifier can effectively manage symptoms [1.5.1, 1.5.2, 1.5.3, 1.5.4].
Oral Health: Persistent dry mouth increases the risk for cavities, so maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial [1.3.2].
When to Call a Doctor: Contact a healthcare provider if thirst is severe, persistent, or accompanied by symptoms like confusion, as it could indicate a rare but serious condition like hyponatremia [1.6.3].
Don't Stop Abruptly: Never stop taking Lexapro without medical supervision due to the risk of withdrawal symptoms [1.6.2].

Understanding Lexapro and Its Function

Lexapro, with the generic name escitalopram, is a widely prescribed medication belonging to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class of antidepressants [1.6.1, 1.4.1]. It is approved by the FDA for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) [1.6.5]. Its primary mechanism involves increasing the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the brain that plays a crucial role in regulating mood, emotion, and anxiety [1.4.5]. By blocking the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin into neurons, escitalopram allows more of it to be available in the synaptic cleft, enhancing communication between brain cells [1.4.5]. While effective for many, this alteration in brain chemistry can lead to a range of side effects as the body adjusts.

Is Thirst a Side Effect of Lexapro?

Yes, both increased thirst and dry mouth are documented side effects of taking Lexapro [1.2.3, 1.10.3]. The clinical term for dry mouth is xerostomia, which is a common side effect associated with many antidepressants, not just Lexapro [1.3.3, 1.6.2]. While often used interchangeably, dry mouth is the sensation of insufficient saliva, which in turn can trigger a feeling of increased thirst (polydipsia) [1.3.2, 1.10.1]. This side effect can range from a minor annoyance to a bothersome issue that impacts quality of life and oral health [1.3.2].

The Pharmacological Reason Behind Dry Mouth

The primary reason many antidepressants cause dry mouth is related to their effect on the nervous system's regulation of saliva [1.4.3]. Saliva production is controlled by both the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems [1.4.2]. Some antidepressants, particularly older classes like Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs), have strong anticholinergic properties, meaning they block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for stimulating saliva flow [1.4.2].

While modern SSRIs like escitalopram have minimal anticholinergic activity compared to TCAs, they are not completely devoid of these effects [1.8.1, 1.8.2]. Even a slight impact on the receptors that control salivary glands can lead to reduced saliva production [1.4.4]. Furthermore, SSRIs' influence on serotonin levels can indirectly affect the hypothalamus, the part of the brain controlling body temperature and thirst, which may also contribute to these symptoms [1.6.1].

Commonality and Management of Lexapro-Induced Thirst

Dry mouth and thirst are common when starting Lexapro, but these side effects often improve or resolve within the first few weeks as the body adjusts to the medication [1.9.4, 1.9.5]. However, for some individuals, the symptom may persist [1.9.5]. Fortunately, there are many effective strategies to manage this discomfort.

Practical Tips for Managing Thirst and Dry Mouth:

Stay Hydrated: Sip water regularly throughout the day rather than drinking large amounts at once. Keep a water bottle handy at all times [1.5.1].
Stimulate Saliva Flow: Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candies. Products containing xylitol are often recommended as they can also help prevent cavities [1.5.2].
Modify Your Diet: Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco, as these substances can exacerbate dryness [1.5.4]. Also, limit salty and dry foods [1.5.3].
Use a Humidifier: Running a humidifier at night can add moisture to the air, which is especially helpful if you breathe through your mouth while sleeping [1.5.3].
Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Dry mouth increases the risk of cavities and gum disease [1.3.2]. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, floss regularly, and consider using an alcohol-free mouthwash designed for dry mouth [1.5.1, 1.5.4].
Over-the-Counter Solutions: Artificial saliva substitutes and oral moisturizers, available as sprays or gels, can provide temporary relief [1.5.1].
Consult Your Doctor: If the thirst is severe or persistent, it's crucial to speak with your healthcare provider. They can rule out other causes and may suggest adjusting your dosage or trying a different medication [1.5.3, 1.5.5].

Comparison with Other Antidepressants

Dry mouth is a side effect shared by many antidepressants. Here's a comparison between Lexapro (escitalopram) and another common SSRI, Zoloft (sertraline).


Feature	Lexapro (Escitalopram)	Zoloft (Sertraline)
Primary Indication	Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder [1.6.5]	MDD, PTSD, OCD, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder [1.7.3]
Common Side Effects	Nausea, insomnia, sexual dysfunction, dry mouth, fatigue [1.6.1, 1.6.2]	Nausea, diarrhea, sexual dysfunction, dry mouth, dizziness [1.7.5]
Dry Mouth Side Effect	A known common side effect [1.6.2, 1.7.5]	A known common side effect, though some comparisons note Lexapro may cause it more often [1.7.1, 1.7.5]
Anticholinergic Activity	Considered to have minimal anticholinergic activity [1.8.1, 1.8.2]	Also considered to have minimal anticholinergic effects [1.8.2]

When to Seek Medical Attention

While increased thirst is usually a manageable side effect, it's important to contact your doctor if it is severe, doesn't improve, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms like confusion, weakness, or excessive urination [1.6.3, 1.10.4]. In rare cases, extreme thirst can be related to a condition called hyponatremia (low sodium in the blood), which can be a serious side effect of SSRIs [1.6.1, 1.6.3]. Do not stop taking Lexapro abruptly without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms [1.6.2].

Conclusion

Increased thirst and dry mouth are indeed common and recognized side effects of Lexapro [1.2.3]. This is primarily due to a reduction in saliva production, a phenomenon seen with many antidepressants [1.4.3]. For most people, this side effect is temporary and can be effectively managed with simple lifestyle adjustments like increased water intake and using sugar-free gum [1.5.1, 1.5.4]. However, persistent or severe symptoms warrant a discussion with a healthcare professional to ensure proper management and rule out any other underlying issues [1.5.5].

Authoritative Link: For comprehensive information on escitalopram, its uses, and side effects, consult the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) page on Escitalopram (Lexapro). [1.6.5]

Frequently Asked Questions

For many people, dry mouth is a temporary side effect that improves or goes away within the first one to two weeks as their body adjusts to the medication [1.9.4]. If it persists, you should consult your doctor.

Yes, sipping water regularly throughout the day is a primary recommendation for managing dry mouth and the feeling of thirst caused by Lexapro [1.5.4].

While Lexapro causes dry mouth and increased thirst, it can also, in rare instances, be associated with hyponatremia (low sodium levels), which involves the body holding onto water [1.6.1]. It's more about fluid balance disruption than simple dehydration. Always drink water and speak to a doctor if thirst is excessive.

Usually, dry mouth is a common and manageable side effect [1.6.5]. However, if it's accompanied by symptoms like confusion, severe headache, weakness, or seizures, it could be a sign of a rare but serious condition called hyponatremia, which requires immediate medical attention [1.6.1, 1.6.3].

Dry mouth (xerostomia) is the sensation of not having enough saliva [1.3.2]. This feeling of dryness often triggers increased thirst (polydipsia), which is the desire to drink more fluids [1.10.1].

All SSRIs can potentially cause dry mouth, though the risk varies between medications and individuals [1.7.4]. If this side effect is intolerable, your doctor might suggest trying another SSRI or a different class of antidepressant.

Yes, chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candy can stimulate saliva production and provide relief from dry mouth [1.5.1, 1.5.4].