Pilocarpine
Uses of Pilocarpine
Pilocarpine is commonly used to treat Dry Mouth After Radiotherapy Of Head And Neck Cancer, Glaucoma, Ocular Hypertension, Sjogren's Syndrome
How Pilocarpine Works
Pilocarpine works by binding to cholinergic receptor causing secretion of the saliva and reduce intraocular pressure.
Side Effects of Pilocarpine
Blurred vision, Rhinitis, Constipation, Diarrhea, Nausea, Vomiting, Dizziness, Flushing, Headache, Palpitation
Warnings
Kidney Safe If Prescribed
No dosage adjustment is needed for patients with renal impairment as indicated by the manufacturer labelling.
Alcohol Safe
There is no contraindication in alcohol consumption while taking Pilocarpine.
Pregnancy Not Safe
Animal reproductive studies have shown foetal toxicity while there is no adequate human data to conclude the safety of Pilocarpine during pregnancy. It is thus best avoided during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks.
Driving Not advisable
It is not advisable to drive when under Pilocarpine treatment due to its potential side effects such as headache and dizziness which can affect the ability to concentrate and drive.
Liver Limited Data
Dosage adjustment may be needed in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment. It is not advisable to be used for patients with severe hepatic impairment.
Lactation Limited Data
It is not known whether Pilocarpine is excreted into human breastmilk or not. Due to its potential toxicity, Pilocarpine is not advisable to be used during breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
