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Printable Version Benztropine Mesylate Oral

Active Ingredients: Benztropine Mesylate
Other Names: Cogentin
Drug Class: Anticholinergics for Parkinson's Disease
Rx Status: Available by prescription only
Generic Available: Yes
Product Images & Descriptions:
Pronunciation:

What is/are Benztropine Mesylate Oral?
What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine?
How should I use this medicine?
What if I miss a dose?
What may interact with this medicine?
What side effects may I notice from this medicine?
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Where should I keep this medicine?

What is/are Benztropine Mesylate Oral? (Back to top)
BENZTROPINE is for certain movement problems due to Parkinson's disease, certain medicines, or other causes. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.


What should I tell my health care providers before I take this medicine? (Back to top)
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • glaucoma
  • heart disease or a rapid heartbeat
  • mental problems
  • prostate trouble
  • tardive dyskinesia
  • an unusual or allergic reaction to benztropine, other medicines, lactose, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine? (Back to top)
Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 3 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

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.


What if I miss a dose? (Back to top)
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 medicine? (Back to top)

  • haloperidol
  • medicines for movement abnormalities like Parkinson's disease
  • phenothiazines like chlorpromazine, mesoridazine, prochlorperazine, thioridazine
  • some antidepressants like amitriptyline, desipramine, doxepin, nortriptyline
  • stimulant medicines for attention, weight loss, and to stay awake
  • tegaserod

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers 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.


What side effects may I notice from this medicine? (Back to top)
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
  • changes in vision
  • confusion
  • decreased sweating or heat intolerance
  • depression
  • fast, irregular heartbeat
  • hallucinations
  • memory loss
  • muscle weakness
  • pain or difficulty passing urine
  • vomiting

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
  • constipation
  • dry mouth
  • nausea

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.


What should I watch for while using this medicine? (Back to top)
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medicine. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy, and drinking plenty of water may help. Contact your doctor if the problem does not go away or is severe.

This medicine may cause dry eyes and blurred vision. If you wear contact lenses you may feel some discomfort. Lubricating drops may help. See your eye doctor if the problem does not go away or is severe.

You may sweat less than usual while you are taking this medicine. As a result your body temperature could rise to a dangerous level. Be careful not to get overheated during exercise or in hot weather. You could get heat stroke. Avoid taking hot baths and using hot tubs and saunas.


Where should I keep this medicine? (Back to top)
Keep out of the reach of children.

Store below 30 degrees C (86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine 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.


Last Updated:February 25, 2008

COPYRIGHT© Gold Standard, An Elsevier Company


Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.

  Additional Information

  Check Drug Interactions with Benztropine Mesylate Oral

  Learn how Benztropine Mesylate Oral is/are used to treat:
  • Parkinson's Disease

      Test Yourself! If you currently take Benztropine Mesylate Oral, do you know everything that you need to know?

      Make your own printable Medication / Emergency Contact Card



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