Pilocarpine

Document Type

Book Contribution

Publication Date

1-1-2007

Description

Pilocarpine is a direct-acting parasympathomimetic agent exerting a broad spectrum of pharmacological actions mediated through muscarinic acetylcholine receptors. It is non-selective for the various muscarinic receptors and does not stimulate nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. Because of its broad spectrum of activity its therapeutic use is restricted to its action on ocular muscles to decrease intraocular pressure in glaucoma and on salivary glands to cause salivation in patients with dry mouth. It is used as a research tool to selectively stimulate muscarinic receptors. .

Share

COinS