Pilocarpine Hydrochloride (Oral)
Generic Details
Generic Name
Pilocarpine Hydrochloride Oral
Other Names
- Salagen
Drug Class
- Cholinergic Drug
Chemical Formula
C11H17N3O2•HCl
Molecular Weight
244.73 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Stimulates muscarinic receptors, leading to increased secretion of saliva
Indications
- Xerostomia (dry mouth) due to Sjogren's syndrome or radiation therapy
Common Dosage Forms
- Oral tablets
Typical Dosage
- 5 mg three to four times daily
Pediatric Dosage
- Not established
Geriatric Dosage
- Lower dosages may be required due to increased sensitivity in the elderly
Side Effects
- Excessive sweating
- Nausea
- Bradycardia
- Headache
- Diarrhea
Contraindications
- Asthma
- Unstable cardiovascular conditions
Pregnancy Category
- Category C - Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus
Lactation Safety
- Caution advised, potential risk to the infant
Drug Interactions
- Beta-blockers may potentiate the effects of pilocarpine
Overdose Symptoms
- Excessive sweating
- Salivation
- Tearing
- Dizziness
Antidote for Overdose
- Atropine
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract
- Distribution: Widely distributed in the body
- Metabolism: Hepatic metabolism
- Excretion: Mainly via the urine
Precautions
- Use with caution in patients with asthma or cardiovascular diseases
Warnings
- May cause sweating and salivation, avoid activities requiring alertness until effects are known