Efficacy of cevimeline vs. pilocarpine in the secretion of saliva: a pilot study

To determine the efficacy and compare the side-effects of cevimeline and pilocarpine in the secretion of saliva in patients with xerostomia.

A randomized, cross-over, double blind study was designed. Fifteen patients with diagnosis of xerostomia were assigned to take either 5 mg of pilocarpine or 30 mg of cevimeline three times a day for four weeks. Salivary flow rates were measured during the initial baseline, first and second month appointments. Statistical analysis was carried out with ANOVA and post hoc t-tests.

Twelve patients completed both medication treatments. Although both medications proved to increase salivary secretion, there was no significant difference between pilocarpine and cevimeline. Also, the perceived side-effects between the two medications were similar.

Both medications increased the secretion of saliva at the end of four weeks. However, there was a slightly higher increment in saliva with pilocarpine. However, the difference was not statistically significant.