Artane

The active ingredient in Artane is trihexyphenidyl hydrochloride. Trihexyphenidyl is an anticholinergic drug. The mechanism of action is by inhibiting acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that regulates many bodily activities, including movement. Trihexyphenidyl relaxes your muscles, helping to prevent spasms and tremors.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Artane. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Artane:

This medication can be taken before or after meals, however, it is most commonly used with them.

The most common side effects of Artane seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Dry mouth.
• Dizziness.
• Nausea.
• Blurred vision.
• Drowsiness.
• Constipation.
• Involuntary movements.
• Hallucination.
• Tardive dyskinesia may appear in some patients on long-term therapy with antipsychotic drugs or may occur after therapy with these drugs has been discontinued.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Artane. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome symptoms include tight muscles, perspiration, fever, a fast heartbeat, and an irregular pulse.
• Allergic reaction or adverse reactions to the medication such as hives or a skin rash.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Artane. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Artane, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether you have:

• Glaucoma.
• Eye pain.
• Enlarged prostate.
• Hypertension (high blood pressure).
• Urinary blockage.
• Kidney disease.
• Liver disease.
• Gastrointestinal blockage.
• Avoid becoming overheated. Artane may cause decreased sweating. This could lead to heat stroke in hot weather or with vigorous exercise.

Narrow-angle glaucoma.

Trihexyphenidyl can begin to act in about an hour to aid with mobility issues. However, it may take 2-3 hours to observe the full effect.

When Artane is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• When Artane (trihexyphenidyl) is used concomitantly with levodopa, the usual dose of each may need to be reduced.
• Tricyclic antidepressants

The recommended dosage for trihexyphenidyl tablets and trihexyphenidyl 2 mg/5 mL oral solution is identical.

Parkinson's disease: The typical starting dose is 1 mg administered orally on day one. Every few days, your provider will increase your dose to a high dose, of 6 mg to 15 mg by mouth per day. The dosage can be divided into three doses taken with meals.

Movement problems: The daily oral dose ranges from 5 mg to 15 mg.

Your doctor may modify your dosage form (oral, as a tablet or elixir) based on the other medications you're taking and your reaction to the medication.

Store at room temperature and keep out of reach of children.

Lederle is the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Artane.

There are several lower-cost generic name versions available of Artane.

Do not discontinue taking trihexyphenidyl abruptly without consulting your doctor, especially if you are taking additional drugs. Parkinson's disease symptoms may recur after a sudden pause.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.