Disease Related

PILOCARPINE

Pilocarpine is a natural alkaloid derived from the leaves of the jaborandi plant. It primarily acts as a muscarinic agonist, stimulating the secretion of saliva and sweat. Clinically, pilocarpine is used to treat dry mouth (xerostomia) in conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome and as an eye drop to lower intraocular pressure in glaucoma. Its ability to enhance exocrine gland activity makes it a valuable therapeutic agent in managing these conditions.

Pilocarpine is a cholinergic agent that mimics the action of acetylcholine (ACh) in the body. It is a natural compound extracted from the leaves of the Pilocarpus jaborandi plant.

Chemical Structure:

  • Molecular Formula: C11H16N2O2
  • Chemical Name: 3-Ethyl-4-[(3-methyl-1H-imidazol-4-yl)methyl]pyridine-1-oxide

Pharmacological Effects:

  • Stimulates muscarinic receptors, producing:
    • Increased salivation and sweating
    • Pupil constriction (miosis)
    • Increased gastrointestinal motility and secretion
    • Urinary bladder contraction
    • Bronchoconstriction

Clinical Uses:

  • Treatment of:
    • Dry mouth (xerostomia)
    • Glaucoma (to reduce intraocular pressure)
    • Postoperative ileus
  • Diagnostic tool for:
    • Sweat gland function
    • Gastrointestinal motility disorders

Side Effects:

  • Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
  • Headache, dizziness, and weakness
  • Abdominal cramps and discomfort
  • Flushing, sweating, and hypersalivation
  • Bronchospasm and respiratory distress (rare)

Contraindications:

  • Asthma and other respiratory conditions
  • Peptic ulcer disease
  • Hyperthyroidism
  • Pregnancy and lactation
  • Hypotension and cardiac arrhythmias

Note: Pilocarpine is a potent cholinergic agent and should be used with caution, under medical supervision.