Salagen tablets 5 mg for dry mouth symptoms (pilocarpine hydrochloride)

What are Salagen tablets 5 mg for dry mouth symptoms (pilocarpine hydrochloride)?

Salagen tablets are a medication designed to alleviate the discomfort of dry mouth, scientifically known as xerostomia. The active ingredient in Salagen tablets is pilocarpine hydrochloride, a hydrochloride salt extracted from plants belonging to the Pilocarpus genus. This natural alkaloid serves as a potent cholinergic parasympathomimetic agent, meaning it mimics the activity of the parasympathetic nervous system by binding to specific muscarinic receptors.

Upon ingestion, pilocarpine hydrochloride quickly starts its action by interacting with muscarinic receptors present in the exocrine glands throughout the body. These glands are responsible for producing various secretions, such as saliva, sweat, and tears. By activating the muscarinic receptors in these glands, Salagen stimulates the production and release of substantial amounts of saliva, helping to combat the oral dryness that patients with xerostomia.

Salagen's effectiveness in treating dry mouth has been well-documented through scientific studies. One notable scenario where Salagen tablets have proven beneficial is in patients suffering from dry mouth due to radiation therapy in the head and neck region. Additionally, it has been found to be effective in managing dry mouth associated with Sjogren's syndrome, an autoimmune disorder affecting moisture-producing glands.

Clinical studies have shown that a dosage of 5 mg of the active ingredient, administered daily over a period of 12 weeks, has been the most effective regimen for treating dry mouth and related symptoms. This dosage and duration of treatment have demonstrated significant improvements in salivary flow rates, alleviating oral dryness, and enhancing overall comfort.

Beyond its benefits for dry mouth, Salagen tablets may also assist in easing symptoms of dry eyes, another common issue experienced by individuals with Sjogren's syndrome. The increased stimulation of tear secretion brought about by pilocarpine hydrochloride contributes to greater eye moisture, offering much-needed relief to patients.

Active principles: pilocarpine hydrochloride

Amount: 100 tablets

Maker: Kissei Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Matsumoto, Japan

Indications: treatment of oral dryness associated with radiation therapy to the head and neck and in patients with Sjogren's syndrome.

How to take

Adults should take 1 tablet 3 times a day within 30 minutes after meal. Avoid taking this medicine on empty stomach.

Contraindications: do not use patients with heart disease, bronchial asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, patients with gastrointestinal obstruction or obstruction of the urinary bladder, with epilepsy, parkinsonism or Parkinson's disease, iritis, edema or pain in salivary gland, interstitial pneumonia, pancreatitis, hypersensitive enteropathy, peptic ulcer, gallbladder disorder or gallstone, stone formation (in urinary tract, kidney), prostatic hyperplasia or hyperthyroidism. Do not use for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Important information

As this medicine may cause visual impairment, be careful when operating dangerous machinery in a dark place or driving a car at night.

As this medicine may cause excessive sweating, be sure to take enough water to avoid dehydration.

If an allergic reaction occurs, patient needs to stop using the medicine and consult with their doctor. If patient is taking any other medication or treatment, they should consult with their doctor in advance.