My doctor tried a diuretic first (HCTZ?) followed with a lisinopril combination. I developed a chronic cough and was changed to losartan/hctz. I am experiencing dry mouth and, over the last several months, a tendency for frequent coughing. As a singer, it has been bad enough to have a detrimental effect on my ability to sing. Is the dry mouth caused by the diuretic? Are all BP meds accompanied by diuretics? What alternatives should I ask my doctor about? I am 65 years old, and my pre-treatment BP was about 135/90. My BP responded well to both treatments, but the side effects have been unacceptable.