Is pilocarpine the same as Salagen?
Pilocarpine (Salagen) is a cholinergic agonist, which means that it binds to and activates cholinergic receptors in your body. In the mouth, cholinergic receptors work on the saliva glands, so pilocarpine (Salagen) helps you make more saliva.
What is the drug Salagen used for?
This medication is used to treat symptoms of dry mouth due to a certain immune disease (Sjogren’s syndrome) or from saliva gland damage due to radiation treatments of the head/neck for cancer. Pilocarpine belongs to a class of drugs known as cholinergic agonists.
What is pilocarpine 5 mg used for?
Pilocarpine tablets are used to treat dryness of the mouth and throat caused by a decrease in the amount of saliva that may occur after radiation treatment for cancer of the head and neck or in patients with Sjogren’s syndrome. This medicine may help you speak without having to sip liquids.
Is Salagen safe to take?
Salagen may cause blurred vision, especially at night or in low light. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be able to see clearly. Avoid becoming overheated during exercise and in hot weather. Salagen can increase sweating and you may be more prone to dehydration.
Does pilocarpine make you lose weight?
Does Pilocarpine cause weight gain? If you already have heart conditions, then Pilocarpine may cause some changes to blood pressure, heart rhythm, etc. Some may experience chest discomfort, shortness of breath, palpitations, including abnormal weight gain. If you do, stop Pilocarpine immediately and consult a doctor.
How does pilocarpine (Salagen) work in the body?
Pilocarpine (Salagen) is a cholinergic agonist, which means that it binds to and activates cholinergic receptors in your body. In the mouth, cholinergic receptors work on the saliva glands, so pilocarpine (Salagen) helps you make more saliva.
How long does pilocarpine affect salivary flow?
This effect of pilocarpine on salivary flow was time-related with an onset at 20 minutes and a peak effect at 1 hour with a duration of 3 to 5 hours (See Pharmacokinetics section).
What are the possible adverse effects of ocular pilocarpine?
The following adverse experiences have been reported rarely with ocular pilocarpine: A-V block, agitation, ciliary congestion, confusion, delusion, depression, dermatitis, middle ear disturbance, eyelid twitching, malignant glaucoma, iris cysts, macular hole, shock, and visual hallucination.
Can you take pilocarpine if you have hepatic insufficiency?
The use of pilocarpine in patients with severe hepatic insufficiency is not recommended. If needed, refer to the Hepatic Insufficiency subsection of the Precautions section of this label for definitions of mild, moderate and severe hepatic impairment.