Benztropine

Brand names

• Apo-Benztropine
• Bensylate
• Benztropine Omega
• Cogentin
• PMS-Benztropine

Usage

To treat Parkinson's disease or the adverse effects of some central nervous system medicaments, which produce Parkinson-like symptoms or affect muscle control.

How it works

The exact mechanism of action is unknown, but it is believed to help increase the release of certain neurological chemicals that improve control over muscle movement.

Side effects

Serious

Unusually rapid or slow heartbeat, heart palpitations, abnormal behavior, confusion, bowel obstruction.

Common

Constipation. It can be reduced by drinking more fluids and eating high-fiber foods.

Less common

Restlessness, irritability, disorientation, headache, sleepiness, depression, muscle weakness, eye sensitivity to light, dry mouth, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, increased body temperature, decreased sweating.

Possible interactions

Other medicaments:

Benztropine may decrease the effects of:

• cisapride (Propulsid).
• haloperidol (Haldol).
• phenothiazines (Thorazine, others).

The following medicaments may increase the effects of benztropine:



• antihistamines may add to the dryness of mouth and throat.
• monoamine oxidase (MAO) type A inhibitor medicaments may intensify all effects of this medicament.
• tricyclic antidepressants (Elavil, etc.) may add to eye effects and further increase internal eye pressure (dangerous in glaucoma).

Benztropine taken concurrently with:



• amantadine (Symmetrel) may cause increased confusion and possible hallucinations.
• clozapine (Clozaril) can cause increased risk of elevated temperatures, neurological adverse effects and bowel obstruction (ileus).
• procainamide (Procanbid, etc.) may increase risk of heart conduction problems.

Herbal medicines or minerals:

See marijuana below. Additionally, talk to your doctor before adding any herbs to any medicines that you already take. Phenylalanine (200-500 mg daily) has been used by some clinicians to ease Parkinson's. Calabar bean (chop nut or ordeal bean) and octacosanol should be avoided by people living with Parkinson's.

Alcohol:

Use caution. Alcohol may increase the sedative effects.

Marijuana smoking:

May increase heart rate to unacceptable levels. Avoid completely if this increased heart rate will be a problem for you.

Exposure to heat:

Use caution. This medicament may reduce sweating, cause an increase in body temperature and increase risk of heatstroke.

Heavy exercise or exertion:

Use caution. Avoid in hot environments.

Discontinuation:

Do not stop this medicament abruptly. Ask your doctor how to reduce the dose gradually.