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Pilocarpine HCl

Allergan · Phase 3 active Small molecule

Pilocarpine HCl is a muscarinic acetylcholine receptor agonist that stimulates parasympathetic activity to increase salivary and lacrimal gland secretion.

Pilocarpine HCl is a muscarinic acetylcholine receptor agonist that stimulates parasympathetic activity to increase salivary and lacrimal gland secretion. Used for Xerostomia (dry mouth) in patients with Sjögren's syndrome, Xerophthalmia (dry eyes), Radiation-induced xerostomia.

At a glance

Generic namePilocarpine HCl
Also known asAGN-190584
SponsorAllergan
Drug classMuscarinic receptor agonist
TargetMuscarinic M3 receptor
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaOphthalmology / Otolaryngology
PhasePhase 3

Mechanism of action

Pilocarpine binds to and activates muscarinic M3 receptors on salivary and lacrimal glands, mimicking the effects of acetylcholine and promoting fluid secretion. This mechanism is used to treat xerostomia (dry mouth) and xerophthalmia (dry eyes) by directly stimulating residual gland function. The drug's parasympathomimetic effects increase both salivary flow and tear production.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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