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Treatments and drugs
By Mayo Clinic staffMany people can manage the dry eye and dry mouth symptoms associated with Sjogren's syndrome by using over-the-counter eyedrops and sipping water more frequently. But some people may need prescription medications, or even surgery.
Medications
Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may suggest medications that:
- Increase production of saliva. Drugs such as pilocarpine (Salagen) and cevimeline (Evoxac) can increase the production of saliva, and sometimes tears. Side effects may include sweating, abdominal pain, flushing and increased urination.
- Address specific complications. If you develop arthritis symptoms, you may benefit from nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or other arthritis remedies. Yeast infections in the mouth should be treated with antifungal medications.
- Treat system-wide symptoms. Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), a drug designed to treat malaria, is often helpful in treating Sjogren's syndrome. Drugs that suppress the immune system, such as methotrexate or cyclosporine, may also be prescribed.
Surgery
One way to relieve dry eyes is to undergo a minor surgical procedure to seal the tear ducts that drain tears from your eyes (punctal occlusion). Collagen or silicone plugs are inserted into the ducts for a temporary closure. Collagen plugs eventually dissolve, but silicone plugs will keep ducts sealed until they fall out or are removed. Your doctor may use a laser to permanently seal your tear ducts.
- Questions and answers about Sjogren's syndrome. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health_Info/Sjogrens_Syndrome/sjogrens_syndrome_qa.pdf. Accessed May 15, 2009.
- Kruszka P, et al. Diagnosis and management of Sjogren syndrome. American Family Physician. 2009;79:465.
- Naguwa S, et al. Sjogren's syndrome. In: Goldman L, et al. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Saunders Elsevier; 2007. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/137554062-3/841563606/1492/1035.html#4-u1.0-B978-1-4160-2805-5..50294-9_13050. Accessed May 15, 2009.
- Sjogren's syndrome. American College of Rheumatology. http://www.rheumatology.org/public/factsheets/diseases_and_conditions/sjogrens.asp. Accessed May 15, 2009.
- Fox R, et al. Treatment of Sjogren's syndrome. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed May 20, 2009.
- Chang-Miller A (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. June 1, 2009.
