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benztropine mesylate-injection, Cogentin

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GENERIC NAME: BENZTROPINE MESYLATE-INJECTION (benz-TROH-peen MESS-ill-ate)

BRAND NAME(S): Cogentin

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease and similar drug-induced side effects.

HOW TO USE: This drug must be administered as directed by your doctor. Use this drug as directed. It may take a few weeks or months before the full benefits of this medication are observed. Do not stop using this medication without your doctor's approval. Suddenly stopping the medication can sometimes lead to a worsening of symptoms.

SIDE EFFECTS: May cause drowsiness, dizziness, headache, loss of appetite, stomach upset, vision changes, sleeplessness or trembling of the hands. These effects should subside as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. May cause dizziness especially when rising quickly from a seated or lying position. Change positions slowly and be careful on stairs. May decrease your sweating ability making you more prone to heat stroke. Use caution during exercise and hot weather. Notify your doctor if you develop: vomiting, difficulty swallowing, difficulty urinating, uncontrollable movements, chest pain, rapid heart rate, skin rash, mood or mental changes. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: glaucoma, irregular heartbeat, urination problems, allergies (especially drug allergies). Alcohol can aggravate drowsiness. Limit alcohol use. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Because this medication appears in breast milk, consult with your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Inform your doctor about all the medicine you use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially if you take other medicines that make you sleepy or give you dry mouth such as: tranquilizers (e.g., phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine), amantadine, digoxin. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.