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Writer's pictureTeresa Mendoza, PharmD

Med of the Week: Pilocarpine



Image featuring the medication Pilocarpine with an illustration of an open mouth

On this World Oral Health Day, we’re featuring Pilocarpine, a medication commonly used to treat xerostomia (dry mouth)! Here are some things you may be surprised to learn about Pilocarpine:


Generic Name: Pilocarpine

Brand Name(s): Salagen

Pronunciation: PYE loe KAR peen


About this drug:

  • Pilocarpine is used to treat the symptoms of xerostomia due to salivary gland hypofunction caused by radiotherapy for cancer of the head and neck.

  • It is also used to treat the symptoms of xerostomia and xerophthalmia (dry eyes) in patients with Sjögren's syndrome.


Dentistry-related tidbits:

  • Pilocarpine may take 12 weeks for response when used for cancer-related treatment and 6 weeks for Sjögren's syndrome treatment.

  • Remind the patient to avoid becoming overheated during hot weather and exercising as Pilocarpine can increase sweating and lead to dehydration.

  • Inform the patient not to drive or engage in dangerous activities until they know how they react to this medication because Pilocarpine may cause blurred vision, dizziness, and drowsiness.

  • Pilocarpine may cause changes in taste, toothache, gingivitis, glossitis, and voice alterations.

  • The muscle relaxants Cyclobenzaprine and Orphenadrine in combination with Pilocarpine may decrease Pilocarpine efficacy. Before prescribing any medication, use the Rx Check tool to prevent potential drug interactions or adverse effects.


Fun facts:

  • Pilocarpine has been used to treat glaucoma for more than 100 years and was originally made from the South American plant Pilocarpus.

  • Pilocarpine is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines.

  • Pilocarpine binds to the muscarinic receptor on the salivary gland to promote salivation.

  • At this time it is advised to avoid use during pregnancy or when breastfeeding.

  • Pilocarpine should not be used if the patient has narrow-angle glaucoma or untreated or uncontrolled asthma.


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