Cevimeline Explained

Cevimeline (trade name Evoxac) is a synthetic analog of the natural alkaloid muscarine with a particular agonistic effect on M₁ and M₃ receptors. It is used in the treatment of dry mouth and Sjögren's syndrome.

Medical uses

Cevimeline is used in the treatment of xerostomia (dry mouth)^{[1] [2]} and Sjögren's syndrome. It increases the production of saliva.

Side effects

Known side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive sweating, rash, headache, runny nose, cough, drowsiness, hot flashes, blurred vision, and difficulty sleeping.^[3]

Contraindications include asthma and angle closure glaucoma.

Mechanism of action

Cevimeline is a cholinergic agonist. It has a particular effect on M₁ and M₃ receptors. By activating the M₃ receptors of the parasympathetic nervous system, cevimeline stimulates secretion by the salivary glands, thereby alleviating dry mouth.

See also

• Pilocarpine — a similar parasympathomimetic medication for dry mouth (xerostomia)
• Bethanechol — a similar muscarinic parasympathomimetic with longer-lasting effect

External links

• Evoxac (cevimeline HCl hydrate capsules) Full Prescribing Information

Notes and References

1. Ono M, Takamura E, Shinozaki K, Tsumura T, Hamano T, Yagi Y, Tsubota K . Therapeutic effect of cevimeline on dry eye in patients with Sjögren's syndrome: a randomized, double-blind clinical study . American Journal of Ophthalmology . 138 . 1 . 6–17 . July 2004 . 15234277 . 10.1016/j.ajo.2004.02.010 .
2. Book: Fox RI, Fox CM . Management of Sjögren's . Dubois' Lupus Erythematosus and Related Syndromes. . 2019 . 978-0-323-47927-1. 9th. 745-758. en . 10.1016/B978-0-323-47927-1.00060-8.
3. Web site: http://www.medicinenet.com/cevimeline-oral/article.htm Cevimeline ]. MedicineNet . 12 October 2007 .