Benztropine: Drug Information

Generic Name: Benztropine Mesylate

Brand Name: Cogentin

Drug Class: Antiparkinsonism

Uses of Benztropine:

Benztropine is an Antiparkinson drug that is widely used to treat drug induced Parkinsonism, akathisia and acute dystonia. In addition to this, the medicine is used in the treatment and prevention of Parkinson’s disease and Idiopathic or secondary dystonia. In the United States it is sold under the brand name Cogentin. It has antihistamine and anticholinergic properties and is an antagonist that weakens the effect of acetylcholine, thereby decreasing the imbalance between the neurotransmitters acetylcholine and dopamine.

Indications and Dosage:

It is recommended that you take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Benztropine can be taken in the form of a tablet and swallowed whole with or without food. This medicine is not recommended to for children below the age of 3 years.

Warning and Precautions:

Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any medicines or food before taking Benztropine.

If you are pregnant or lactating you must tell your doctor before taking the medicine.

This medicine should not be given to patients with a chronic illness, central nervous system (CNS) disease close angles glaucoma, prostrate enlargement, gastrointestinal obstruction and urinary bladder obstruction.

Caution is advised when prescribing the drug to the elderly and children.

DO NOT work outside during hot weather conditions after taking Benztropine as it increases the chances of heat stroke.

Caution is advised when administering the drug to patients with a history of drug abuse.

Side effects of Benztropine:

The most common side effects of the medication are dry mouth, dry skin, blurred vision, nausea, increased heart rate, stomach upset, irritability, disorientation, confusion, increased thirst, urinary retention, dizziness and drowsiness.

Drug Interactions:

If Benztropine is taken with antidepressants like amitriptyline, imipramine, trimipramine, desipramine, nortriptyline, protriptyline, amoxapine and doxepin, the side effects of the drug are intensified.