Salagen (Pilocarpine)

Salagen
Pilocarpine Hydrochloride

Source:
Salagen
Pilocarpine Hydrochloride

Source:
Generic Equivalents   What's the difference?
Pilocarpine
Pilocarpine Hydrochloride

Source:
Generic Equivalents   What's the difference?
Pilocarpine
Pilocarpine Hydrochloride

Source:

 

Salagen (Pilocarpine)

Salagen (Pilocarpine)

Salagen (Pilocarpine) is a muscular activator that stimulates the body’s natural processes to produce more saliva and tears, relieving dryness. Salagen, which is appropriate for adults, provides a road to improving oral and ocular health, hence promoting total well-being.

Why Choose Salagen (Pilocarpine)?

  • Effective Relief: Significantly alleviates symptoms of dry mouth and eyes.

  • Improves Oral Health: Increases saliva production, which aids digestion and protects oral tissues.

  • Enhanced Quality of Life: By reducing dryness, Salagen improves speech, taste, and swallowing, making everyday life more enjoyable.

  • Tailored Treatment: Available in a variety of dosages to meet individual treatment needs and preferences.

How to Use Salagen (Pilocarpine)?

  • Dosage: It is critical to follow the dosage advised by your healthcare practitioner. Salagen is normally taken orally three to four times per day, but your doctor may adjust your dosage according to your individual needs and health status.

  • Consistency: For optimal benefits, take Salagen at regular intervals throughout the day. Consistent use helps your body maintain an ideal amount of medication, resulting in sustained symptom alleviation.

  • With or Without Food: Salagen may be taken with or without food. If you experience stomach trouble, take it with meals to alleviate the discomfort.

Important Safety Information about Salagen

  • Hydration:Stay hydrated while using Salagen, as it improves the medication’s effectiveness and helps preserve overall health.
  • Missed Dose:If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, omit the missed dose and proceed on your regular schedule. Do not duplicate the doses.

  • Lifestyle adjustments:Simple modifications, such as eating light meals or wearing light clothing, can help to alleviate nausea and sweating.

Fact Table for Diclectin

Generic Name Pilocarpine

Brand Name
Salagen®
Therapeutic Class Cholinergic agonist

Indications

Treatment of dry mouth from Sjögren’s syndrome or radiation therapy for cancer in the head and neck area.

Dosage Forms Oral tablets (5 mg, 7.5 mg)

Common Side Effects

Sweating, nausea, rhinitis, diarrhea, chills, flushing, frequent urination, dizziness, muscle weakness.
Contraindications
Asthma, acute iritis, and other conditions where cholinergic effects are harmful.
Special Considerations

– Requires dosage adjustment in hepatic and renal impairment. – May affect heart rate; caution in cardiac patients. – Monitor for signs of excessive cholinergic activity.

Mechanism of Action Mimics the action of acetylcholine, stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system to increase salivation and sweat production.

Administration Taken orally with or without food. Starting dose and frequency depend on the indication and patient response.

Pregnancy Category Consult your healthcare provider – the effects are not well-studied in pregnant women.
Interactions Can interact with other medications that affect cholinergic activity, including some anticholinergics, beta-blockers, and others.

Storage Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Common Side Effects of Salagen

Like all medications, Salagen (Pilocarpine) can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Understanding these side effects can help you use this medication safely and effectively.

  • Sweating
  • Nausea
  • Rhinitis
  • Diarrhea
  • Chills
  • Flushing
  • Frequent urination
  • Dizziness
  • Muscle weakness

If you experience any side effects, discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can offer advice and may adjust your treatment if necessary. Report any severe or unexpected side effects immediately.

How Can You Buy Salagen (Pilocarpine)?

You can order Salagen (Pilocarpine) using these methods on our website:

  1. Order Online
  2. Order by Phone
  3. Order by Fax
  4. Order your refills

Visit our How to order page.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How long does it take for Salagen to start working?

    Some patients may begin to notice an improvement in dry mouth symptoms within 1 to 2 weeks of starting Salagen. However, it might take up to 3 months to experience the full benefits.

  2. What if I miss a dose of Salagen?

    If you miss a dose of Salagen, take it immediately when you remember. If it is almost the time for your next dose, just skip the missed one and continue with your next dose. Avoid taking two doses at once.

  3. Can I use Salagen if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

    The effects of Salagen during pregnancy and breastfeeding are not fully known, so it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider to weigh the benefits against the potential risks.

  4. Are there any precautions I should know about before taking Salagen?

    Before starting Salagen, inform your doctor if you have conditions like asthma, glaucoma, liver or kidney disease, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It’s also important to discuss any other medications you’re taking to avoid potential interactions.

  5. What are the potential side effects of taking Salagen?

    While Salagen is beneficial, it may cause side effects like increased sweating, frequent urination, nausea, diarrhea, and blurred vision among others. Most side effects are manageable, but you should contact your healthcare provider if they become severe or bothersome.

  6. How should I take Salagen?

    Salagen is usually taken three to four times a day, with or without food, as directed by your healthcare provider. It’s important to take it at the same times each day to maintain an even level of the medication in your blood.

  7. How does Salagen work?

    As a cholinergic agonist, Salagen stimulates the nervous system in a way that increases the secretion of saliva in your mouth. This makes it easier for you to speak and swallow, bringing relief from the dry mouth associated with various medical conditions.

  8. What is Salagen used for?

    Salagen, containing the active ingredient pilocarpine, is primarily used to manage symptoms of dry mouth and dry eyes, especially resulting from Sjogren’s syndrome or head and neck radiation therapy. By stimulating saliva and tear glands, it helps alleviate discomfort associated with dryness.

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References
Salagen [package insert].Brantford, Ontario: Methapharm Inc; 2020.

Dr. Conor Sheehy, PharmD, BCPS is a practicing clinical pharmacist that works in primary care. He supports other members of the healthcare team including physicians, mid-level providers, nurses, and other clinical staff. He also likes to use his drug knowledge to inform his patients and the public about the benefits and risks they can expect from their medications. His clinical specialties include: anticoagulation, diabetes management, and psychiatric care.
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Please note that due to government rules and regulations, orders may not exceed 3 months in supply.
Please call 1-800-258-0477 or email us if you have any questions or concerns.