Cevimeline: Uses, Side Effects
Cevimeline increases the secretions of the saliva and sweat glands in the body.
Cevimeline is used to treat dry mouth in people with Sjögren’s Syndrome.
Cevimeline may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Before taking cevimeline
You should not take cevimeline if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
- untreated or uncontrolled asthma;
- narrow-angle glaucoma; or
- an eye condition called iritis or uveitis.
To make sure cevimeline is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have:
- asthma, chronic bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD);
- heart disease, angina (chest pain), or a history of heart attack;
- a heart rhythm disorder;
- high blood pressure (hypertension);
- liver or kidney disease; or
- a history of kidney stones or gallstones.
It is not known whether this medicine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
It is not known whether cevimeline passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while using this medicine.
Cevimeline is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.
Side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using cevimeline and call your doctor at once if you have:
- severe pain in your stomach, side, or lower back;
- vomiting;
- fast, slow, or uneven heart rate;
- painful or difficult urination;
- a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out; or
- dehydration symptoms–feeling very thirsty or hot, being unable to urinate, heavy sweating, or hot and dry skin.
Common side effects may include:
- increased sweating;
- excessive salivation, drooling;
- nausea, diarrhea;
- dry mouth;
- headache; or
- stuffy nose.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
What other drugs will affect cevimeline?
Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any you start or stop using, especially:
- an antibiotic or antifungal medicine;
- an antidepressant;
- antiviral medicine to treat hepatitis C or HIV/AIDS; or
- heart or blood pressure medication.
This list is not complete. Other drugs may interact with cevimeline, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible interactions are listed in this medication guide.
Keyword: cevimeline.