Pilocarpine  (U.S.N.L.M.)
Dosing: For acute angle closure:    one drop 2% solution every 15-60 minutes
up to 4 doses.   (Used when IOP is below 40-50 mm Hg)
Chem Specs pilocarpine HCL  1%,  2%,  4%
Quantities 15ml
Cost $95.81/15ml/1%
Class Muscarinic Cholinergic Agonist
Action Increases aqueous outflow through trabecular meshwork.
Usage Lowers IOP in acute angle closure glaucoma.
Though ineffective at pressures above 40 - 50 mm Hg due to sphincter ischemia
initial instillation makes the drug immediately available once the IOP is reduced
by other means.
Used to prevent postoperative elevated IOP associated with laser surgery,
and as adjunctive qhs therapy for exfoliative glaucoma.
Contraindications Paradoxical angle shallowing can occur if used in malignant glaucoma or
lens induced narrow angle.
Pediatric use Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients has been established.
Pregnancy Category C. Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with pilocarpine.
Used as maintenance therapy prior to Laser Peripheral Iridotomy. Headache, qid dosing,
and miosis, make it inappropriate for POAG except where possible angle closure is an issue.
Overdose can lead to cholinergic crisis (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sweating, bradycardia,and hypotension).
    N.L.M. DailyMed page for Pilocarpine         PDR page for Pilocarpine