pilocarpine
General English name: pilocarpine
Brand: Salagen
Application: Dry mouth after radiotherapy - Dry mouth and eyes in Sjögren's syndrome
Pilocarpine Drug Information
Contraindications to the use of pilocarpine
Drug interaction of pilocarpine
Tips to consider before taking pilocarpine
Possible side effects of pilocarpine
How to store pilocarpine
Pilocarpine Drug Information
Medication Information: Pilocarpine is used to treat dry mouth caused by radiation therapy to the head and neck. It is also used to treat some of the symptoms of Sjنgren's syndrome.
Sjنgren's syndrome has several symptoms, the most common of which is dry mouth and eyes. The cause of these symptoms is a lack of secretion in the glands of the body. Pilocarpine increases tears and saliva by stimulating the glands.
If you need more information about pilocarpine eye drops, refer to the relevant page.
Contraindications to the use of pilocarpine
- Note the expiration date of pilocarpine and do not take it if your medicine has expired.
- Never give pilocarpine to anyone else, even if you have the same symptoms.
- Do not take pilocarpine more than the dose prescribed by your doctor.
- Check for drug interactions with pilocarpine and be sure to tell your doctor what other medication you are taking.
Drug interaction of pilocarpine
Drug interactions may alter drug performance and increase the risk of serious side effects. Make a list of all the medicines (including prescription / over-the-counter and herbal medicines) you use and share them with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not change the dose of your medicine without consulting your doctor or stop taking the medicine.
Tips to consider before taking pilocarpine
Some medications are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and some medications may be prescribed if additional treatment is needed; Therefore, it is best for your doctor to know the following before taking pilocarpine:
- If you have cardiovascular disease.
- If you have liver or kidney disease.
- If you have asthma or other respiratory problems.
- If you have a stomach ulcer, gallstones, or bile duct obstruction.
- If you have glaucoma or conjunctivitis.
- If you have ever had mental problems.
- If you are taking certain medications. These medicines include all the medicines available, whether you are prescribed them or taking them without a doctor's prescription, such as herbal medicines and complementary medicines.
Possible side effects of pilocarpine
All medications can cause side effects. But many consumers also do not experience any side effects. Some of the side effects go away shortly after taking pilocarpine. In case of persistent side effects, the doctor should be informed:
- Headache: Ask your doctor to prescribe a suitable painkiller.
- Increased sweating, hot flashes: Be careful not to exercise too much during exercise. Drink several glasses of water daily.
- Blurred vision, poor vision in low light: Avoid driving or operating tools in this situation.
- Diarrhea and constipation, abdominal pain: Eat a balanced diet and drink several glasses of water daily.
- Darkening of the eyes: Sit for a few minutes to feel better. Avoid driving and working with tools in this situation.
- Talk to your doctor if you have any symptoms that you think may be due to pilocarpine.
How to store pilocarpine
Keep the medicine out of the reach of children.
Store the medicine in a cool, dry place away from heat and direct sunlight.