An alkaloid obtained from the leaves of Pilocarpus microphyllus and other species of Pilocarpus. It is a parasympathomimetic (direct-acting cholinergic) drug, which mimics the effect of acetylcholine causing miosis and accommodation. It counteracts sympathomimetic mydriatics. It is used in the treatment of glaucoma. Pilocarpine hydrochloride is most commonly applied to the eye as a 1% solution. Carbachol and bethanechol chloride are other parasympathomimetic drugs with similar effects to pilocarpine.
It stimulates glands, resulting in diaphoresis, salivation, lacrimation it may be used to treat post-radiation or opioid-induced xerostomia, gastric and pancreatic secretion
Synonyms
Minims pilocarpine, Pilogel, Salagen, Sno Pilo, Ocusert Pilo.