Ocvimeline

Ocvimeline

Ocvimeline is a hypothetical medication used in the treatment of a specific medical condition. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Ocvimeline, including its mechanism of action, clinical uses, pharmacokinetics, side effects, and contraindications.

Mechanism of Action

Ocvimeline functions as a selective agonist of the muscarinic acetylcholine receptor subtype M3. By binding to these receptors, Ocvimeline stimulates the secretion of exocrine glands, particularly increasing salivary and lacrimal gland output. This action is beneficial in conditions characterized by dry mouth and dry eyes, such as Sjögren's syndrome.

Clinical Uses

Ocvimeline is primarily indicated for the treatment of:

• Sjögren's syndrome: To alleviate symptoms of dry mouth and dry eyes.
• Radiation-induced xerostomia: To manage dry mouth in patients who have undergone radiation therapy for head and neck cancers.

Pharmacokinetics

Ocvimeline is administered orally and is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. It undergoes hepatic metabolism, primarily via the cytochrome P450 enzyme system, and is excreted in the urine. The half-life of Ocvimeline is approximately 5 hours, allowing for dosing multiple times a day.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Ocvimeline include:

• Sweating
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Increased urinary frequency

Serious side effects, though rare, may include:

• Bronchospasm
• Bradycardia
• Hypotension

Contraindications

Ocvimeline is contraindicated in patients with:

• Uncontrolled asthma
• Severe cardiovascular disease
• Known hypersensitivity to the drug or its components

Also see

• Muscarinic acetylcholine receptor
• Sjögren's syndrome
• Xerostomia
• Pharmacokinetics

Template:Receptor pharmacology