Why Does Your Mouth Feel Dry When You Sleep at Night? 8 Common Reasons to Understand

3. Side Effects from Common Medications
Many everyday medications list reduced saliva as a possible effect. This includes antihistamines for allergies, certain blood pressure pills, antidepressants, and even some pain relievers.

These drugs can interfere with how salivary glands work, leading to noticeable dryness especially at night when saliva production is already lower. Medical sources note that hundreds of medications may contribute in this way.

If you suspect this, talk to your healthcare provider about timing doses or alternatives—never stop medications on your own.

4. Sleeping with Your Mouth Open Due to Snoring or Sleep Apnea
Snoring and conditions like obstructive sleep apnea often force mouth breathing, drying out the oral tissues quickly. In sleep apnea, breathing pauses prompt the mouth to open for air, worsening the issue.

This can create a cycle of dryness and poor sleep quality. Studies link these breathing patterns to increased reports of morning dry mouth.