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Cevimeline Capsules

Cevimeline is a medication that increases saliva and decreases dry mouth caused by Sjögren's syndrome. This condition affects moisture production in certain glands of your body, including the saliva-producing and tear-producing glands.

What is this medication?

CEVIMELINE (se VIM e leen) treats dry mouth. It works by increasing the amount of saliva in the mouth, which makes it easier to speak and swallow.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Evoxac

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What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • Angina
  • Glaucoma
  • Heart disease
  • History of a heart attack
  • Iritis
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Lung or breathing disease, such as asthma
  • An unusual or allergic reaction to cevimeline, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

Take this medication by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You may take this medication with food. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medication more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on the advice of your care team.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

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What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

  • Certain medications for high blood pressure
  • Certain medications for seizures, such as carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital
  • Clarithromycin
  • Erythromycin
  • Medication used to treat fungal infections, such as fluconazole, itraconazole, or ketoconazole
  • Medications used to treat HIV, AIDS
  • Rifabutin
  • Rifampin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

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What should I watch for while using this medication?

You may have visual changes, especially at night, while taking this medication. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medication affects you.

If you sweat a lot while taking this medication, you may become dehydrated. Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Talk with your care team if you are sweating a lot.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Heart rhythm changes—fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, chest pain, trouble breathing
  • New or worsening shortness of breath

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Change in vision
  • Diarrhea
  • Excessive sweating
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Runny or stuffy nose

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

Copyright ©2024 Elsevier Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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