Which category of drugs is known to affect salivary flow?

Which category of drugs is known to affect salivary flow?

• A. Vaccines
• B. Antacids
• C. Antidepressants
• D. Minerals

Answer: (C)

Salivary flow is controlled by the autonomic nervous system, and medications that have anticholinergic effects reduce the activity of the salivary glands, leading to dry mouth (xerostomia). Antidepressants, especially older tricyclics, often have anticholinergic properties or alter autonomic balance, which lowers saliva production. That’s why dry mouth is a well-known side effect of antidepressants and a key reason this category affects salivary flow. Vaccines don’t change gland secretion, and antacids or minerals don’t typically alter saliva production in a clinically meaningful way.

Salivary flow is controlled by the autonomic nervous system, and medications that have anticholinergic effects reduce the activity of the salivary glands, leading to dry mouth (xerostomia). Antidepressants, especially older tricyclics, often have anticholinergic properties or alter autonomic balance, which lowers saliva production. That’s why dry mouth is a well-known side effect of antidepressants and a key reason this category affects salivary flow. Vaccines don’t change gland secretion, and antacids or minerals don’t typically alter saliva production in a clinically meaningful way.