Pilocarpine
Pilocarpine is a cholinergic agonist that stimulates salivary and other exocrine glands to increase secretions. It is primarily used to treat dry mouth (xerostomia) conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome or radiation-induced xerostomia, and is also used ophthalmically for glaucoma management.
A cholinergic medication that increases glandular secretions, used mainly for dry mouth and glaucoma.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N07AX01
- RxNorm
- 8328
- Generic
- Pilocarpine
- Class
- atc-n07
- Brands
- Salagen, Pilocar, Vuity, Qlosi, Isoptocarpine
- Availability
- rx
- Pregnancy
- C
- Lactation
- caution
- Routes
- ophthalmic, oral
- Forms
- solution, gel, tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of dry mouth (xerostomia) associated with Sjögren's syndrome, radiation therapy to head and neck, and other conditions causing reduced saliva production. Also used topically for glaucoma and ocular hypertension to reduce intraocular pressure.
A direct-acting muscarinic cholinergic agonist that binds to and activates muscarinic receptors on exocrine glands, smooth muscle, and other tissues, stimulating secretion and contraction. In the eye, it causes pupillary constriction and opens drainage channels to lower intraocular pressure.
Common side effects include sweating, nausea, flushing, increased urinary frequency, and bradycardia. Contraindicated in patients with uncontrolled asthma, acute iritis, or known hypersensitivity. Use with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease, peptic ulcers, or urinary tract obstruction. Should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy