Pilocarpine Sol
Call to order(859) 281-9511General Drug Information and Indications
Cholinergic miotic for glaucoma and keratoconjunctivitis sicca; increases aqueous humor outflow; pupil constriction.
Cholinomimetic miotic (pilocarpine HCl). Mechanism: direct muscarinic M3 receptor agonist in iris sphincter muscle → pupillary constriction (miosis); M3 stimulation in ciliary muscle → trabecular meshwork stretch → increased aqueous humor outflow → reduced IOP (glaucoma). Parasympathomimetic action.
Key information
Cholinergic miotic — ophthalmic for glaucoma. For ophthalmic use only. May cause miosis and brow ache. Refrigerate after opening.
How to Give this Medication
Ophthalmic solution: Instill into the conjunctival sac; avoid touching dropper tip to eye or periocular tissue. Instill 1 drop into affected eye(s) q6–8h for glaucoma. Administer at consistent times. Store at room temperature; protect from light.
If a dose is missed
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next application, skip it and resume the normal schedule. Do not apply extra product to compensate.
Side Effects
Ophthalmic: miosis, brow ache, headache, retinal detachment (rare — in predisposed patients). Accommodation spasm/myopia. Retinal tears (with prolonged use). Systemic (if absorbed): bradycardia, bronchospasm, salivation, GI cramping.
Precautions
For animals
Contraindicated as a glaucoma medication in patients with lens luxation (miosis worsens anterior lens luxation). Avoid in uveitic eyes. May cause retinal tears in predisposed patients (systemic administration).
For people handling this medication
Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Cholinergic ophthalmic — if eye contact occurs, may cause excessive tearing, constricted pupil, blurred vision. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Contact your veterinarian. Excessive pilocarpine can cause cholinergic signs: excessive salivation, GI cramping, and bradycardia. Contact your veterinarian or a veterinary emergency clinic immediately if you believe your animal has received an overdose. Bring the medication label and note the approximate amount given.
Pilocarpine Sol dosage forms
| Product | Strength | Form | Size | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PILOCARPINE OPH SOLUTION 2% (15ML) | — | — | 1 | Commercial |
Sources
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. Source: Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com); Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook (Plumb, D.C., app.plumbs.com)