Salagen

Product Information Change Font Size The following information is a summary about Salagen. It is not intended to replace a doctor's instructions. What is pilocarpine? Pilocarpine is an agent that affects the nervous system. Pilocarpine increases saliva secretion in the mouth. Pilocarpine is used in the treatment of dry mouth. Pilocarpine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide. What is the most important information I should know about pilocarpine? Pilocarpine may cause changes in vision, especially at night. Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. If you experience changes in vision, avoid these activities. Dehydration may be more likely to occur during treatment with pilocarpine, due to increased sweating. Use caution when exercising and when exposed to hot weather. Drink plenty of fluid to maintain adequate hydration. What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking pilocarpine? Before taking pilocarpine, talk to your doctor if you have: glaucoma or other eye problems asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, or other breathing or lung problems; heart problems; gallbladder problems; mental problems; stomach problems; abnormal blood pressure or blood vessel problems; kidney problems; or liver problems. You may not be able to take pilocarpine or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above. Pilocarpine is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether pilocarpine will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take pilocarpine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether pilocarpine passes into breast milk. Do not take pilocarpine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. How should I take pilocarpine? Take pilocarpine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Pilocarpine can be taken with or without food. It is important to take pilocarpine regularly to get the most benefit. Store pilocarpine at room temperature away from moisture and heat. What happens if I miss a dose? Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not take a double dose of pilocarpine unless otherwise directed by your doctor. What happens if I overdose? Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected. Symptoms of a pilocarpine overdose may include headache, hallucinations, visual disturbances, sweating, chest pain, abnormal heart rate, abnormal blood pressure, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, tremors, or confusion. What should I avoid while taking pilocarpine? Pilocarpine may cause changes in vision, especially at night. Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. If you experience changes in vision, avoid these activities. Dehydration may be more likely to occur during treatment with pilocarpine, due to increased sweating. Use caution when exercising and when exposed to hot weather. Drink plenty of fluid to maintain adequate hydration. Pilocarpine side effects Stop taking pilocarpine and seek emergency medical attention if you experience any of the following uncommon but serious side effects: an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); difficulty breathing; irregular heartbeats; eye pain; or confusion or changes in mental status or behavior. Other, less serious side effects may also occur. Continue to take pilocarpine and talk to your doctor if you experience changes in vision; increased sweating; dizziness; headache; runny nose; nausea; redness of the face and neck; chills; or an increased urge to urinate. Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. What other drugs will affect pilocarpine? Before taking pilocarpine, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines: a heart or blood pressure medication; a seizure medication; a medication for Parkinson's disease or other medications for muscle control; an antihistamine or allergy medications; a medication for motion sickness; an antidepressant or antipsychotic medication; or a medication for stomach problems. You may not be able to take pilocarpine, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during your treatment if you are taking any of the medicines listed above. Drugs other than those listed here also interact with pilocarpine. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including vitamins, minerals, and herbal products. Where can I get more information? Your pharmacist has more information about pilocarpine written for health professionals that you may read. What does my medication look like? Pilocarpine is available with a prescription under the brand name Salagen. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you. Salagen 5 mg-white, round, film-coated tablets Salagen 7.5 mg-blue, round, film-coated tablets Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.