Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: PILOCARPINE - ORAL (pie-low-KAR-peen)
BRAND NAME(S): Salagen
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication causes an increase in saliva flow. It is used to treat dry mouth.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth exactly as prescribed usually three times a day. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Do not increase the dose or take this more often than directed since the chance of side effects will be increased.
SIDE EFFECTS: Sweating, stomach upset, runny nose, flushing, chills, dizziness, weakness, and frequent urination may occur the first few days as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects continue or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop any of these highly unlikely symptoms: skin rash, anxiety, mood changes, headache, vomiting, eye pain, rapid or slowed heart rate, chest pain, tremor, breathing trouble. This drug may affect your vision, especially at night. Use caution driving. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: gallbladder problems, urinary tract disorders, asthma, lung disease, heart disease, liver disease, psychiatric illness, any allergies. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known if this medication appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take, including: heart medication, asthma medication. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- Sjogren's Syndrome - Sjogren's syndrome causes symptoms that include arthritis, dry mouth, lips and eyes, leading to eye pain. Read about diagnosis, Schirmer testing, treatment and medications.
- Drugs: What You Should Know About Your Drugs - Find out what you should know about your drugs such as side effects, warnings and precautions, storage information, and if a generic version is as good as the brand name.
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