Page 58 - Phytochemistry 2 (06-PG 605)

Methods of Assay (estimation)
 Colorimetric method
 Spectrophotometric method.
Pharmacological effects & uses:

Pilocarpine has diaphoretic & miotic action.
 salts of pilocarpine HCl & nitrate (BP) are used in ophthalmic practice as
they cause contraction of the eye-pupil.
 Pilocarpine action being antagonistic to that of atropine.
 In early glaucoma treatment they serve to reduce the intra-ocular pressure.
 Pilocarpine is sometimes taken orally (5mg) or subcutaneous to stimulate the
secretion of saliva for patient suffering from dry mouth (xerostomia).
 Pilocarpine is also used to treat dry mouth (xerostomia) which can occur, for
example, as a side effect of radiation therapy for head and neck cancers.
Pilocarpine stimulates the secretion of saliva and sweat.

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