Pilocarpine: Side Effects, Uses & Monitoring
Facts extracted from current FDA product labeling for Pilocarpine. Educational only — not medical advice.
Reported adverse reactions
| Reaction | Highest frequency reported* |
|---|---|
| Sweating | 68% |
| Nausea | 15% |
| Chills | 15% |
| Rhinitis | 14% |
| Flushing | 13% |
| Urinary frequency | 12% |
| Dizziness | 12% |
| Asthenia | 12% |
| Headache | 11% |
| Flu syndrome | 9% |
| Diarrhea | 7% |
| Dyspepsia | 7% |
| Lacrimation | 6% |
| Edema | 5% |
| Abdominal pain | 4% |
| Amblyopia | 4% |
| Vomiting | 4% |
| Pain | 4% |
| Sinusitis | 4% |
| Pharyngitis | 3% |
*Highest percentage across placebo-controlled trial tables summarized in current labeling.
Labeled uses
Pilocarpine Hydrochloride Tablets are indicated for 1) the treatment of symptoms of dry mouth from salivary gland hypofunction caused by radiotherapy for cancer of the head and neck; and 2) the treatment of symptoms of dry mouth in patients with Sjogren's Syndrome.
Source: FDA labeling via NIH DailyMed (set 610022b7…). Not affiliated with FDA or NIH.
Medical disclaimer: Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about any medication.