Pilocarpine
Salagen (pilocarpine) is a cholinergic medication that stimulates muscarinic receptors, primarily used to treat dry mouth (xerostomia) in patients with Sjögren's syndrome or those who have received radiation therapy for head and neck cancers. It works by increasing secretions from exocrine glands, helping restore moisture to the mouth and potentially other affected areas.
Salagen is a cholinergic medication used to treat dry mouth by stimulating glandular secretions.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 202959
- Generic
- Salagen
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- 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.
Primarily prescribed for dry mouth (xerostomia) caused by Sjögren's syndrome or radiation therapy for head and neck cancers. May also be used for other conditions involving reduced salivary or tear production as determined by a healthcare provider.
Salagen is a muscarinic agonist that stimulates parasympathetic nerve endings, causing increased secretion from exocrine glands including salivary glands, lacrimal glands, and other mucosal glands. This restores moisture to dry tissues.
May cause side effects such as excessive sweating, nausea, flushing, headache, or dizziness. Should be used cautiously in patients with asthma, COPD, heart conditions, or active duodenal ulcers. Avoid use in patients with uncontrolled asthma or angle-closure glaucoma. Always take as prescribed and inform your doctor of all medications being taken.
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 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy