1. How to dilute Pilocarpine eye drops?
Diluting Pilocarpine can diagnose conditions like Adie's pupil when correct strength Pilocarpine is not available. The solution should be in the ratio of one drop of Pilocarpine to 15 drops of saline. One drop of 2% Pilocarpine is added to 15 drops of normal saline and mixed well.
2. Does Pilocarpine cause weight gain?
If you already have heart conditions, then Pilocarpine may cause some changes to blood pressure, heart rhythm, etc. Some may experience chest discomfort, shortness of breath, palpitations, including abnormal weight gain. If you do, stop Pilocarpine immediately and consult a doctor.
3. Why is Pilocarpine used to treat glaucoma?
Glaucoma is a condition that can lead to loss of vision due to an increase in pressure inside the eye. Pilocarpine can treat this condition by draining the excess fluid and decreasing the intraocular pressure. It also reduces the symptoms of glaucoma.
4. Can cycloplegic be used along with Pilocarpine?
Cycloplegic drugs have the opposite effect of Pilocarpine. The cycloplegic drugs can dilate the pupil in several eye conditions and diagnose. Pilocarpine constricts the pupil. Pilocarpine eye drops are used to reverse the effects of cycloplegic eye drops.
5. Can Pilocarpine cause artificial myopia?
Myopia is a condition where far-away objects are blurry. Some people can experience temporary myopia after using Pilocarpine eye drops. But these visual disturbances will usually correct themselves in a few hours.
6. Can Pilocarpine cause cataracts?
There is a moderate chance that Pilocarpine can cause cataracts. The chances increase in long-term usage, dosage levels, and the age of the patient. Discontinuing Pilocarpine can reverse its effects. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor patients on Pilocarpine who already have cataracts.
7. Is Pilocarpine an anticholinergic?
No, Pilocarpine is a cholinergic drug. It mimics the properties of acetylcholine, which is produced by nerves.
8. When should I take Pilocarpine?
It is recommended to take Pilocarpine during or after meals. The oral tablet dose is usually 3-4 times a day.
9. What is the difference between Pilocarpine and Cevimeline?
Both are cholinergic drugs, which stimulates muscarinic (M1, M2, M3) receptors, which release acetylcholine from nerve endings. Pilocarpine is non-selective and stimulates all receptors, whereas cevimeline is specific to M1/M3 receptors.
10. What is the antidote for Pilocarpine?
In conditions with severe poisoning due to Pilocarpine, atropine is used as an antidote to reverse its effects.
11. Can you use Pilocarpine long-term?
This study suggests that Pilocarpine as an oral tablet is safe to use in long-term administration.
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