Drug Name:Pilocarpine
Drug Class:Cholinergic agonist
Mechanism of Action:
  • Stimulates muscarinic receptors in the parasympathetic nervous system
  • Increases secretion of saliva, tears, and sweat
  • Constricts the pupil and increases accommodation
Use:
  • Treatment of dry mouth (xerostomia) due to Sjogren's syndrome or radiation therapy
  • Treatment of glaucoma to reduce intraocular pressure
  • Diagnosis of Horner's syndrome
Side Effects:
  • Excessive sweating
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Bradycardia
  • Hypotension
  • Bronchospasm
Contraindications:
  • Asthma
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • Bradycardia
  • Hypotension
  • Peptic ulcer disease
Specialty:
  • Ophthalmology
  • Dentistry
  • Neurology