Cevimeline
Xerostomia
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Cholinergic Receptor Agonist
Controlled Drug Substance
No

Cevimeline
Summary
Cevimeline is used to treat symptoms of dry mouth in patients suffering from Sjögren's Syndrome, a condition that affects the immune system and causes dryness in parts of the body such as the eyes and mouth.
Cevimeline works by stimulating muscarinic receptors in the body, which increases the production of saliva. This helps alleviate dryness in the mouth, improving comfort and oral health.
The usual daily dose for adults is 30 mg of Cevimeline, taken three times a day. It can be taken with or without food, but food may decrease the rate of absorption. It's important to consult your doctor about consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while on this medication.
Common side effects of Cevimeline include excessive sweating, nausea, and rhinitis. More serious side effects can include severe headache, changes in vision, difficulty breathing, and changes in heartbeat. If you experience any of these, consult your doctor immediately.
Cevimeline should be used cautiously in patients with cardiovascular or pulmonary disease. It is contraindicated in patients with uncontrolled asthma, known hypersensitivity to the drug, and when miosis is undesirable, such as in acute iritis and narrow-angle glaucoma.
Indications and Purpose
How does Cevimeline work?
Cevimeline is a cholinergic agonist that binds to muscarinic receptors, increasing secretion from exocrine glands like salivary and sweat glands. This action helps alleviate symptoms of dry mouth by boosting saliva production.
Is Cevimeline effective?
Clinical studies have shown that Cevimeline improves symptoms of dry mouth in patients with Sjögren’s Syndrome. In a 6-week study, 76% of patients reported improvement compared to 35% in the placebo group. Another study showed significant increases in salivary flow.
What is Cevimeline?
Cevimeline is used to treat dry mouth symptoms in patients with Sjögren’s Syndrome. It works by stimulating muscarinic receptors, increasing saliva production. This helps alleviate dryness in the mouth, improving comfort and oral health.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Cevimeline?
Cevimeline is typically used as long as needed to manage symptoms of dry mouth in patients with Sjögren’s Syndrome. The duration of use should be determined by a healthcare provider based on individual patient needs.
How do I take Cevimeline?
Cevimeline should be taken three times a day, preferably at the same times each day. It can be taken with or without food, but food may decrease the rate of absorption. Consult your doctor about consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while on this medication.
How long does it take for Cevimeline to start working?
Cevimeline is rapidly absorbed, with peak concentrations occurring 1.5 to 2 hours after taking a dose. Patients may start to notice an improvement in dry mouth symptoms shortly after taking the medication.
How should I store Cevimeline?
Store Cevimeline in its original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from excess heat and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children. Do not store it in the bathroom.
What is the usual dose of Cevimeline?
The usual daily dose for adults is 30 mg taken three times a day. There is no established dose for children as safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Cevimeline be taken safely while breastfeeding?
It is not known if Cevimeline is excreted in human milk. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, a decision should be made to either discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, considering its importance to the mother.
Can Cevimeline be taken safely while pregnant?
Cevimeline should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women, so consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Can I take Cevimeline with other prescription drugs?
Cevimeline should be used cautiously with beta-blockers due to potential conduction disturbances. It may have additive effects with other parasympathomimetic drugs and could interfere with antimuscarinic drugs. CYP2D6 and CYP3A3/4 inhibitors may affect its metabolism.
Is Cevimeline safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may have decreased liver, kidney, or heart function, and may be taking other medications. Special care should be taken when starting Cevimeline in elderly patients, and they should be monitored closely for side effects.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Cevimeline?
Cevimeline may cause excessive sweating, which can lead to dehydration. This could potentially affect your ability to exercise. Ensure you stay hydrated and consult your doctor if you experience any issues while exercising.
Who should avoid taking Cevimeline?
Cevimeline is contraindicated in patients with uncontrolled asthma, known hypersensitivity to the drug, and when miosis is undesirable, such as in acute iritis and narrow-angle glaucoma. It should be used cautiously in patients with cardiovascular or pulmonary disease.