Can Vitamin B complex cause xerostomia (dry mouth)?

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Last updated: March 21, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Research

Vitamin B complex supplements are not directly associated with causing xerostomia (dry mouth) based on the most recent and highest quality study available. The study from 2021 1 investigated the effect of vitamin B complex and zinc supplements on burning mouth syndrome and found no statistically significant changes in salivary flow after treatment. This suggests that vitamin B complex supplements may not have a significant impact on saliva production or dry mouth.

Key Points to Consider

  • The study from 2021 1 is the most recent and highest quality study available, and it did not find a significant association between vitamin B complex supplements and dry mouth.
  • Other studies, such as the one from 2013 2, focused on the reduction of serum homocysteine levels and oral symptoms after vitamin-supplement treatments in patients with burning mouth syndrome, but did not specifically address the issue of dry mouth.
  • The study from 1991 3 evaluated the vitamin B1, B2, and B6 status of patients with recurrent mouth ulcers and found that replacement therapy improved symptoms in deficient patients, but this study is older and not directly related to the question of dry mouth.
  • The study from 2022 4 reviewed the role of vitamin B12 in treating recurrent aphthous stomatitis, but did not address the issue of dry mouth.

Recommendations

  • If you are experiencing dry mouth after starting a vitamin B complex supplement, consult with your healthcare provider to rule out other potential causes and discuss possible strategies to manage the dryness.
  • Consider reducing the dosage or taking the supplement with food to minimize potential side effects.
  • Ensure adequate water intake throughout the day to help manage dry mouth symptoms.

References

Research

Significant reduction of serum homocysteine level and oral symptoms after different vitamin-supplement treatments in patients with burning mouth syndrome.

Journal of oral pathology & medicine : official publication of the International Association of Oral Pathologists and the American Academy of Oral Pathology, 2013

Research

Recurrent aphthous ulceration: vitamin B1, B2 and B6 status and response to replacement therapy.

Journal of oral pathology & medicine : official publication of the International Association of Oral Pathologists and the American Academy of Oral Pathology, 1991

Research

Role of vitamin B12 in treating recurrent aphthous stomatitis: A review.

International journal for vitamin and nutrition research. Internationale Zeitschrift fur Vitamin- und Ernahrungsforschung. Journal international de vitaminologie et de nutrition, 2022

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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