Key facts about Benztropine
What dosages is Benztropine available in?
Benztropine is available as a 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 2 mg oral tablet.
What is Benztropine used for?
Benztropine is an anticholinergic used for Parkinson’s disease (add-on medication) and movement problems (extrapyramidal symptoms, or EPS) caused by antipsychotic medications.
How does Benztropine work?
Benztropine is an anticholinergic medication. It blocks chemicals that are thought to cause muscle spasms and tremors.
How do I take Benztropine?
Benztropine is typically taken by mouth once or twice daily.
Is it safe for me to take Benztropine?
Benztropine is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not take this medication if are are hypersensitive to Benztropine mesylate or to any ingredient in the formulation or component of the container, are less than 3 years of age, or have narrow angle glaucoma.
Benztropine Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Benztropine include:
- Fast heartbeat
- Slowed gut movement
- Dry mouth
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
Other Side Effects:
- Blurry vision
- Confusion
- Memory problems
- Fever
- Discomfort while urinating
Benztropine Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Benztropine. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following. Overheating: high body temperature, reduced sweating, confusion
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Benztropine
The following medications may interact with Benztropine:
- Anticholinergics / antispasmodics – Additive anticholinergic effects may occur if Benztropine is used concurrently with other drugs with anticholinergic effects such as amantadine, clidinium antihistamines, antipsychotics, muscle relaxants, tricyclic antidepressants
- MAO inhibitors (e.g. moclobemide, phenelzine, tranylcypromine, methylene blue), motion sickness medication (e.g. scopolamine, dimenhydrinate) – decrease cholinergic effects/transmission. Additive anticholinergic adverse effects may be seen with concurrent use
Who makes Benztropine?
Various FDA-approved generic manufacturers
Is Benztropine safe in pregnancy?
It is not known if Benztropine will harm your unborn baby. If you become pregnant while receiving Benztropine, talk to your healthcare provider.
