The list of medications that can cause halitosis is long and varied. This is a real side effect from many medications, particularly those that are related to digestion, although this list of halitosis causing medications is certainly not limited to digestive meds.

Obviously, medications are taken because they are needed, so eliminating the medications is not a choice for most people. They simply suffer with halitosis, wondering what to do to get rid of the problem. Well, there are things that we can do to lessen and even eliminate the problem of halitosis caused by medications, without going of our needed prescriptions and over the counter remedies.

Since halitosis is caused by a build up of bacteria in the mouth and at the back of the throat, we know that the key to treatment lies in reducing that bacteria accumulation. But we also know that medications can cause halitosis. If you think about it, it makes sense. Medications are chemical substances that we introduce to our bodies for the medicinal or healthful benefit that compound has on a body process or condition. Certainly, these chemicals will have other effects on the way.

There is a connection between medications like Prilosec, Zantac, Imodium and Lomotil to bad breath. These medications affect digestion and acid production, so the effect on halitosis should not be a surprise. Whether they reduce acid, allowing an increase in odor causing bacteria in the mouth, or they alter the acid and bacteria levels in the stomach and intestines, this connection can clearly be made.

But there are many other medications that cause halitosis. The number one class of medications that have a direct impact on halitosis is the antihistamines and decongestants. The mouth and nose are connected. Anything that affects one, will inevitable affect the other. When we take medications to eliminate runny noses and nasal congestion, that stuff has to go somewhere. Generally it runs down the back of the throat. When medications are used to dry up those passages, they affect the environment inside your mouth!

The bottom line with any medication is to notice the side effects that it seems to have. Pay attention to whether your mouth feels dry when on the medication, and to other symptoms. For halitosis, you can simply address the atmosphere created by the medication with remedies such as good oral hygiene, drinking plenty of fluids to maintain mouth moisture, and eating a well-balanced diet.