Pilocarpine

[Chris21]

Has anyone tried this medication? I've been having problems with dry/sore throat that's probably in a flare and my normal spray is not having any effect. The consultant suggested this medicine on my last visit. I declined as it was under control at the time and was put off by the side affects. Now it hurts so much I'll try anything!

[SjogiBear]

Yes I have tried it under the brand name Salagen. Now everyone is different and it all depends on how much you are prepared to put up with side effects when weighed against the symptoms you are dealing with. Personally I found that it made me feel like I had the flu - I felt clammy and very peculiar on it to the extent that I preferred coping with a dry mouth and throat. It's worth giving it a go though as it's something that you can stop if you don't like it. I know some people have also used a much lower dose by using the pilocarpine eye drops orally which has given them relief without such extreme side effects.

[Chris21 in reply to SjogiBear]

Thanks, that's exactly what the nurse said. Try it and if you don't like it stop taking it. My appointment with the consultant isn't for another few weeks so I'll see how I get on and decide when I see him.

[Versailles]

I was prescribed pilocarpine for dry eyes 20 years ago. I find its helpful for my eyes also for dry mouth. I haven't experienced any side effects.

[Chris21]

Thank you, I'm considering trying it.

[chrisj]

The dental hospital prescribed pilocarpine for me to help with sjogrens some months ago but it made me poorly, she stopped it next visit....gutted really as it helped such a lot in producing saliva....