Pilocarpine oral

About Pilocarpine oral

This belongs to the group of medicines known as cholinergic agonists.

It is used to relieve dry mouth brought on by radiotherapy to the head or neck, by increasing the production of saliva. It can also be used to relieve dry eyes in some conditions.

Pilocarpine is available in tablet form.

Before Taking Pilocarpine oral

Before taking any of this medicine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from heart, liver, kidney or gall bladder problems
• if you suffer from asthma or breathing problems
• if you suffer from glaucoma, a stomach ulcer or mental problems
• if you have been experiencing difficulty urinating (passing water)
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to Take Pilocarpine oral

• Try to take this medicine at regular intervals, as directed by your doctor, to keep a steady level of pilocarpine in your body.
• Take pilocarpine tablets with or immediately after food, with a large glass of water.
• Try not to miss any doses. If you do miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case leave out the missed dose. Never take two doses at the same time to compensate.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Pilocarpine can cause you to sweat more than you usually do. Try to drink plenty of water throughout the day and take care not to become dehydrated during exercise.
• Before having any surgery, including dental or emergrncy treatment, tell the doctor, dentist or surgeon that you are taking pilocarpine.
• Pilocarpine can cause blurred eyesight, particularly at night and in low lighting. Take care when driving or doing any jobs which could be dangerous if you were unable to see properly.
• If your condition has not improved after two to three months ask your doctor for advice.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has tanken an overdose of pilocarpine contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container or bottle with you if possible, even if empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Can Pilocarpine oral cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Sweating, nausea (feeling sick), diarrhoea, indigestion, tummy pain, flushing (redness of the face), headache, dizziness, a runny nose, a need to urinate (pass water) more often, watery eyes, flu-like illness, vomiting (being sick), flatulence (excess wind), constipation, a fast heart beat, blurred vision, breathlessness, wheezing, confusion or mood changes.

If you experience any other worrying side effects, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your pharmacist.

How to store Pilocarpine oral

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 13/09/2002