Pilocarpine (HCl, Nitrate)
Pilocarpine (HCl, Nitrate) is a cholinomimetic tertiary amine alkaloid, obtained from the leaves of the plants of the genus Pilocarpus having predominantly muscarinic effects. its actions are similar to those of methacholine. Pilocarpine (HCl, Nitrate) is used topically to produce miosis and transient rise and persistant fall in intra-ocular pressure;used in the treatment of glaucoma. Pilocarpine (HCl, Nitrate) is also used to stimulate saliva production in xerstomia (dry mouth) after radiotherapy.
Primary Characteristics
It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Alkaloid.
It belongs to Cholinergic muscarinic antagonist pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Antiglaucoma pharmacological group. It is also classified under Opthalmic Products .
Molecular Weight: 208.3 · pKa: 1.6, 1.7 · Solubility in Water: > 1 in 30 · Solubility in Alcohol: > 1 in 30 · Non-proprietary name: Pilocarpine (HCl, Nitrate) · pH: 4 · Isotonic value: 4.08.

Pharmacokinetics
None recorded.
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Indications
Pilocarpine (HCl, Nitrate) is primarily indicated in conditions like Accomodative esotropia, Glucoma.
Contraindications
Pilocarpine (HCl, Nitrate) is contraindicated in conditions like Inflammation.
Dosage
Pilocarpine (HCl, Nitrate)'s dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 1.5 % | 1.5 % | Every 8h | Ophthalmic | - |
| 3 % | 3 % | Every 8h | Ophthalmic | drops. |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 1.5 % | 1.5 % | Every 8h | Opthalmic | - |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 1.5 % | 1.5 % | Every 8h | Opthalmic | - |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Pilocarpine (HCl, Nitrate) in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Eustachian tube disturbances , Middle ear disturbances , Malignant glaucoma , Retinal detachment .
Pilocarpine (HCl, Nitrate) produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Pulmonary edema , Bronchospasm . Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Pilocarpine (HCl, Nitrate) are Bronchospasm, Diarrhea, Abdominal cramps, Abdominal pain, Sweating , Pallor, Nausea & vomiting, Cyanosis, Lacrimation, Salivation , Urination.
Pilocarpine (HCl, Nitrate) is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Blurred vision, Conjunctival irritation, Follicular conjunctivitis, Lacrimal passage stenosis, Myopia , Visual disorders.
Warnings / Precautions
Available Brands
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.21.4.1 — Miotics