Indications
Salagen is a prescription medication used to treat symptoms of dry mouth caused by Sjogren's syndrome or radiation treatment for head and neck cancer. The active ingredient in Salagen is pilocarpine. Pilocarpine belongs to a class of drugs known as cholinergic agonists. It works by stimulating the production of saliva. Salagen comes in tablet form and is taken orally.
Uses and Dosage
Salagen tablets can be taken by mouth with or without food, usually 3-4 times daily, or as directed by your doctor. To minimize the risk of side effects, your doctor may recommend starting with a low dose of Salagen and gradually increasing it. Adhere to your doctor's instructions carefully.
The appropriate dosage of Salagen is based on your medical condition and individual response to treatment. If you have liver problems, your doctor may advise taking Salagen only twice a day.
- For dry mouth due to radiation therapy for head or neck cancer: The typical starting dose is 5 mg by mouth three times a day. The dosage may be increased up to 10 mg by mouth three times a day but should not exceed 30 mg/day.
- For Sjogren's syndrome: The recommended dose of Salagen Tablets is 5 mg taken three or four times a day. The dosage may be adjusted up to a maximum of 30 mg/day.
To obtain the most benefit from Salagen, it should be taken on a regular basis at the same times each day. You can use a reminder system to help you remember to take it.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Salagen (Pilocarpine):
- Chills
- Dizziness
- Flushing
- Frequent urination
- Nausea
- Runny nose
- Sweating
- Vision changes
- Weakness
Serious Side Effects of Salagen (Pilocarpine):
- Dizziness
- Fast heartbeat
- Fluid buildup under the skin (edema)
- Flu-like symptoms
- Headache
- High blood pressure
- Holding more body water
- Indigestion
- Lazy eye
- Pain
- Sinus or throat inflammation
- Stomach pain
- Swelling of face, fingers, ankles, or feet
- Tearing from the eyes
- Trembling or shaking
- Trouble seeing
- Trouble swallowing
- Unusual weak feeling
- Voice change
- Vomiting
Form and Strength
Salagen (Pilocarpine) is available in the following forms and strength:
Salagen: Tablet
- 5 mg
Pilocarpine: Tablet
- 5 mg
- 7.5 mg
Caution
- Patients with significant cardiovascular disease may experience a worsening of their condition due to the effects of Salagen on the cardiovascular system.
- Salagen may cause bronchial constriction in patients with asthma and should be used with caution in these patients.
- Salagen may cause blurred vision in some patients and should be used with caution in those with ocular disease.
- Salagen may increase urinary frequency and urgency, which could be problematic in patients with urinary tract obstruction.
- Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of Salagen and may be more prone to certain side effects such as sweating or diarrhea.
- Salagen is metabolized by the kidneys, and its use may need to be adjusted in patients with renal impairment.
- Salagen is metabolized by the liver, and its use may need to be adjusted in patients with hepatic impairment.
- Salagen may be harmful to a developing fetus, and its use during pregnancy should be avoided except in cases where the potential benefits outweigh the risks. It is not known whether Salagen passes into breast milk, so its use during breastfeeding should also be avoided.
- The recommended dose of Salagen may need to be reduced in patients with certain conditions, such as those with reduced body weight or those taking certain medications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long can I take Salagen?
The duration of treatment with Salagen will depend on your individual medical condition and response to therapy. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate duration of treatment for you.
How soon can I expect to see improvement in my dry mouth symptoms after starting Salagen?
The maximal therapeutic effect is usually obtained after 4 to 8 weeks of therapy, but some patients may experience improvement in symptoms sooner.
Can children take Salagen?
Salagen is not recommended for use in children.
Resources
- https://www.everydayhealth.com/drugs/salagen
- https://reviews.webmd.com/drugs/drugreview-10088-salagen-pilocarpine-oral
- https://www.goodrx.com/pilocarpine/what-is
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=fb4810ec-d26f-429d-b87c-5898a7870169
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19119-pilocarpine-tablets
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-10088/salagen-pilocarpine-oral/details
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