Pilocarpine

What Is Pilocarpine?

Pilocarpine is a cholinergic agonist or a direct-acting parasympathomimetic alkaloid that increases the secretion of saliva. It can also aid the exocrine glands in producing sweat, mucous, tears, digestive juices, and more. This drug is solely derived from the plant genus pilocarpus, which is native to the Neotropics of South America. Pilocarpine is listed as an essential medicine by the World Health Organization because of the superior benefits it provides in dentistry and other branches of medicine. Pilocarpine can be in the form of eye drops for treating glaucoma and is commercially available in tablet form. However, studies prove that pilocarpine troches made by a compounding pharmacy offer more immediate benefits for patients.

What Is Pilocarpine For?

Many dentists, doctors, and other medical service providers highly recommend pilocarpine troches in order to systemically treat dry mouth (xerostomia). This condition can be caused by malnutrition, use of certain medications, dehydration, or other reasons. Patients with Sjogren’s syndrome and those undergoing radiation therapy due to head and neck cancer can greatly benefit from pilocarpine troches since their salivary and tear glands have been greatly compromised. Pilocarpine can provide immediate relief from the irritation brought by dry mouth.