What is pilocarpine used for, and how does it work?

Pilocarpine is a prescription medicine that stimulates the salivary glands to make more saliva. Results vary. It acts on certain nerve signals that control body secretions. These signals also affect sweat glands, which helps explain why sweating is a common side effect.

Pilocarpine tablets are FDA-approved for dry mouth caused by Sjogren's syndrome or radiation treatment to the head and neck. That approval applies to the approved tablet products. Verra offers compounded pilocarpine troches. Compounded medications are prepared by a licensed pharmacy for one patient and are not FDA-approved.

Dry mouth can have many causes, including other medicines, health conditions, and dehydration. Pilocarpine is not the right choice for every cause. A physician licensed in your state reviews your symptoms, health history, and current medicines before deciding whether treatment is appropriate.

Tell the physician how long you have had dry mouth and whether it affects eating, speaking, swallowing, or sleep. Also mention mouth sores, tooth problems, or trouble swallowing. These details help guide the review.