Cogentin

The active ingredient in Cogentin is benztropine mesylate. Cogentin is an anticholinergic agent that works by inhibiting substances (acetylcholine and histamine) suspected to induce muscle 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 Cogentin. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Cogentin:

• Cogentin is taken orally and is typically taken at nighttime or divided every 6 to 12 hours.
• If you are unable to take Cogentin orally, it can be administered via injection into a muscle or vein.
• Drink plenty of water to avoid dry mouth when on Cogentin. A dry mouth can contribute to gum disease and cavities. Brush and floss your teeth on a regular basis, and see your dentist for basic treatment.
• Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or worsen.

The most common side effects of Cogentin include:

• Nausea or vomiting.
• Dry mouth.
• Constipation.
• Irregular heartbeat.
• Blurred vision.
• Drowsiness.
• Confusion or memory loss.
• Increased body temperature or fever.
• Urinary retention or urination problems.
• Increased blood pressure.
• Muscle weakness.

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

• Overheating: elevated body temperature, decreased perspiration, and disorientation.
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction: skin rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Cogentin. 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 Cogentin, 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 if you have:

• You should avoid using Cogentin if you are allergic to it.
• Not recommended for use by children under the age of three.
• Inform your doctor if you've ever had an enlarged prostate, urinary issues, glaucoma, or muscle issues.
• Older adults may be more vulnerable to the effects of Cogentin.
• Be careful not to become overheated while exercising or in hot weather conditions. You could develop heat stroke or hyperthermia. Avoid hot baths, hot tubs, and saunas.
• Cogentin may increase the risk of stomach ulcers from using potassium chloride.

Contraindications are certain health problems or situations in which a person should avoid taking a drug for safety reasons. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, please notify your healthcare professional since benztropine is not safe for you to use

• Children less than three years of age.

If you're taking Cogentin to treat antipsychotic movement difficulties, you might notice a difference within a day or two. The injectable variants of benztropine act faster than the pills.

When Cogentin 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:

• Other antiparkinson agents.
• Certain medicines used to treat depression, anxiety, mood disorders, or mental illness (haloperidol).
• Phenothiazines such as prochlorperazine or chlorpromazine.
• Cold or allergy medication (antihistamine like Benadryl, among others).
• Medicine for treating stomach disorders, motion sickness, or irritable bowel syndrome.
• Medicine for treating hyperactive bladder.
• Tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline, nortriptyline, or protriptyline
• Asthma treatment with a bronchodilator.
• Adamantanes (e.g., amantadine, memantine, rimantadine).

The dose for Parkinson's disease typically ranges from 0.5 mg to 1 mg taken orally daily. The normal maintenance dose is between 0.5 mg to 6 mg per day, either once or in smaller amounts throughout the day.

Movement problems: The normal dose is 1 mg to 4 mg taken orally once or twice a day.

Benztropine is also available as an injectable administered by a certified healthcare professional.

If you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as possible, but skip it if it's almost time for the next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Store your Cogentin in a dry, room-temperature place and out of reach of children.

Cogentin is no longer available as the brand name.

Yes, there are several lower-cost generic versions available with the active ingredient of benztropine (benz-troe-peen) Mesylate.

If you suddenly stop using Cogentin, your symptoms may worsen. Consult your healthcare provider before discontinuing any of your anti-Parkinson drugs.

It is unclear whether Cogentin will harm an unborn fetus. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or intend to get pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

It is not known if Cogentin passes through the breast milk, therefore, it is best to speak to your healthcare provider before breastfeeding your infant.