Lupus Site - a guide for lupus patients and their families

Brand names - Salagen.

Medication type - Cholinergic parasympathomimetic agent

Common side effects - Increased sweating.

Rare side effects - Bloating or fluid retention, chills, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, runny nose, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, headache, indigestion, frequent urination, redness of face or feeling of warmth, trembling or shaking, difficulty swallowing, excessive tearing, change in voice.

Serious side effects - Serious side effects include chest pain, heartbeat irregularities, severe or ongoing diarrhea, confusion, nausea or vomiting, headache, stomach pain or cramps, difficulty breathing, severe or persistent vision problems, severe trembling or shaking, and fatigue. Call your doctor immediately.

Dosage - Adults: 5 mg, 3 times a day. If needed, the dose may be increased to 10 mg, 3 times a day.

Uses - To treat dryness of the mouth and throat.

Other notes - Take it with food to reduce stomach upset. See your dentist regularly while taking pilocarpine. If the drug causes increased sweating, consume more fluids to prevent dehydration. Consult your doctor if you have any concerns about the proper amount of fluid intake.