How Pilocarpine Increased Salivation?

Increase in salivary secretion

induced by systemic administration of pilocarpine is considered to be mediated by actions on muscarinic cholinergic receptors

muscarinic cholinergic receptors

Muscarinic acetylcholine receptors, or mAChRs, are acetylcholine receptors that form G protein-coupled receptor complexes in the cell membranes of certain neurons and other cells. ... Muscarinic receptors are so named because they are more sensitive to muscarine than to nicotine.

› Muscarinic_acetylcholine_receptor

Muscarinic acetylcholine receptor - Wikipedia

in the central nervous system and salivary glands. ... Pilocarpine also induced Lucifer yellow secretion via paracellular route.

Does pilocarpine stimulate saliva?

Pilocarpine significantly increased salivary output in 21 of the 31 patients. Subjective improvement in the feeling of oral dryness, speaking, chewing, and swallowing were reported by 27 individuals. Side effects, while common, generally were mild and tolerable.

Why does saliva secretion increase?

Drooling is usually caused by excess saliva in the mouth. Medical conditions such as acid reflux and pregnancy can increase saliva production. Allergies, tumors, and above-the-neck infections such as strep throat, tonsil infection, and sinusitis can all impair swallowing.