Lowers IOP in acute angle closure glaucoma. Ineffective at pressures above 40 – 50 mm Hg due to sphincter ischemia. Used postoperatively in laser surgery and for exfoliative glaucoma.
Mechanism of Action
Pilocarpine is a muscarinic agent that increases aqueous outflow through the trabecular meshwork by contracting the pupillary and iris sphincter muscles, inducing miosis. It stimulates various exocrine glands and has full and partial agonism at the muscarinic M3 receptor, expressed in smooth muscle cells in the pupillary sphincter and ciliary bodies, leading to increased smooth muscle tone
Available Quantities
15 ml
Dosage/Instructions
For acute angle closure: 1 drop of 2% solution every 15-60 minutes up to 4 doses, when IOP is below 40-50 mm Hg
For children <2 years old, use 1% only.
Pregnancy & Nursing
Use cautiously during pregnancy; no adequate studies conducted with pilocarpine.
Pediatric Use
≥2 years
Contraindications, side effects, etc.
Contraindications: COPD, peptic ulcer disease, arrhythmias, coronary vascular disease, angle-closure glaucoma, hyperthyroidism. Warnings: May cause difficulty in reading or other vision problems, especially at night. It may also cause some people to become dizzy. Common side effects: Sweating, nausea, runny nose, chills, flushing, frequent urge to urinate, dizziness, weakness, diarrhea, and blurred vision.
