Key facts about Cogentin
What is Cogentin?
Cogentin is the brand name for benztropine mesylate and is available as an oral tablet.
What dosages is Cogentin available in?
Cogentin is available as a 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 2 mg oral tablet.
What is Cogentin used for?
Cogentin is an anticholinergic used for Parkinson’s disease (add-on medication) and movement problems (extrapyramidal symptoms, or EPS) caused by antipsychotic medications.
How does Cogentin work?
Cogentin is an anticholinergic medication. It blocks chemicals that are thought to cause muscle spasms and tremors.
How do I take Cogentin?
Cogentin is typically taken by mouth once or twice daily.
Is it safe for me to take Cogentin?
Cogentin 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.
Cogentin Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Cogentin include:
- Fast heartbeat
- Slowed gut movement
- Dry mouth
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
Other Side Effects:
- Blurry vision
- Confusion
- Memory problems
- Fever
- Discomfort while urinating
Cogentin Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Cogentin. 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 Cogentin
The following medications may interact with Cogentin:
- 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 Cogentin?
Pharmascience Inc.
Is Cogentin safe in pregnancy?
It is not known if Cogentin will harm your unborn baby. If you become pregnant while receiving Cogentin, talk to your healthcare provider.
