Antisialagogue

An antisialagogue is a drug or substance that reduces the flow of saliva, the opposite of a sialagogue, which increases it. Antisialagogues may be natural or synthetic in origin. Anticholinergic medicines generally have this effect, and most of them also cause some degree of sedation, which together are useful advantages in surgical procedures where a dry mouth and a calm patient are wanted. Classic examples named for the group include atropine, hyoscyamine and scopolamine, as well as opioids and most cannabinoids, along with alkalis, tobacco taken in excess and substances that are nauseous or insipid.