Pilocarpine is used to treat symptoms of dry mouth and dry eyes caused by Sjogren's syndrome (an autoimmune disease which affects the glands that make tears and saliva).
This medicine is also used to treat symptoms of dry mouth caused by radiation therapy for cancer of the head and neck.
Take Pilocarpine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.
Take this medicine together with food or immediately after a meal. Try to take it at the same time each day.
Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
The dose of this medicine will be decided by your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on the treatment timeframe depending on the severity of your condition and your response to the medication.
Pilocarpine must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking this medicine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking it unless instructed by the doctor.
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule.
DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.
If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor and pharmacist know.
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- acute iritis (inflammation of the coloured part of the eye)
- anterior uveitis (inflammation of the middle layer of the eye)
- uncontrolled asthma
- uncontrolled heart disease
as Pilocarpine may not be suitable for you.
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:
- controlled asthma
- chronic bronchitis (a long-term lung condition where your airways are inflamed and produce a lot of mucus [phlegm])
- peptic ulcer (open sores in the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or lower food pipe)
- gall bladder or bile duct problems
- mental illness
- kidney disease
- liver disease
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Keep your appointments with your doctor. Your doctor needs to monitor your condition and check your response to the medication regularly.
Pilocarpine may cause your vision to be temporarily blurred. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to see clearly.
Other side effects include any of the following: headache, chills, generalised weakness or lack of energy, watery eyes, sweating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, indigestion, constipation, and flushing.
Some side effects may need immediate medical help. Alert your doctor quickly if you experience any of the following:
- lightheadedness, confusion, passing out
- chest pain, rapid or slow heartbeat, irregular heartbeat, difficulty breathing
- eye pain, severe eye irritation, red and swollen eyes
Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:
- certain medicines for high blood pressure
- atropine (medicine used for widening the pupils and relaxing muscles in the eyes before surgery)
- ipratropium bromide (asthma medicine)
This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Pilocarpine.
Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicines, supplements, and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Avoid alcohol.
Avoid taking Pilocarpine together with high-fat foods as the effectiveness of this medicine may be reduced. Ask your doctor about the types of food you should avoid.
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.
Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
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