What side effects and safety concerns apply to pilocarpine for dry mouth (xerostomia)?

Sweating is a common side effect of oral pilocarpine. Other possible effects include nausea, diarrhea, chills, flushing, frequent urination, and dizziness. Heavy sweating can lead to dehydration. Contact your prescriber if side effects are severe, persist, or make it hard to take the medicine as directed.

Pilocarpine can cause blurred vision or trouble seeing in low light. Be careful with night driving and avoid driving if your vision is affected. It is not appropriate for people with uncontrolled asthma or certain eye conditions, such as narrow-angle glaucoma. Other lung or heart conditions also need careful review.

Tell your clinician about gallstones, kidney stones, liver disease, pregnancy, or breastfeeding. Share all medicines and supplements, including beta blockers, inhalers, allergy medicines, and bladder medicines. Some combinations need extra care. Do not change these medicines on your own. Seek urgent medical care for breathing trouble, chest pain, fainting, or signs of a serious allergic reaction. A licensed physician or dentist in your state decides whether pilocarpine is appropriate for you.