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.
Pilocarpine Side Effects
What are the possible side effects of Pilocarpine?
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. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Pilocarpine Interactions
What other drugs 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.
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 Dosage
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 overdose on Pilocarpine?
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 happens if I miss a dose of Pilocarpine?
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.
Sourced from everydayhealth.com