Cogentin

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How does it work?

This medicine contains the active ingredient benzatropine mesilate (previously spelt benztropine mesylate in the UK), which belongs to a group of medicines called the anticholinergics. These medicines block cholinergic receptors in many parts of the body including the brain. Benzatropine is used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and to reduce the side effects of certain antipsychotic medicines. Dopamine is a chemical substance found in the brain, which is known to be deficient in people with Parkinson's disease. Normally, there is a balance between the level of dopamine and another chemical called acetylcholine. A fall in the level of dopamine results in too high levels of acetylcholine. Therefore by blocking acetylcholine receptors with benzatropine, this balance can be restored. In this way some of the symptoms of Parkinson's disease may be controlled. Benzatropine is most effective at reducing the tremor and rigidity associated with Parkinson's disease, however it has little effect on the slow movements (bradykinesia). It is also useful in relieving symptoms such as drooling, pain and sleep disturbances due to muscle spasm or cramps, mask-like faces, speech and writing difficulties and gait disturbances. Antipsychotic medicines treat conditions such as schizophrenia by decreasing the amount of dopamine in the brain. If these dopamine levels drop too low, they produce side effects which resemble the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. These side effects are known as extrapyramidal side effects and include abnormal face and body movements, restlessness and tremor. Benzatropine is used to reduce these side effects in susceptible individuals.

What is it used for?

- Abnormal movements of the hands, legs, face, neck and tongue (extrapyramidal symptoms) which are side effects of another medicine
- Parkinson's disease

Warning!

- People who experience any gastro-intestinal complaints, fever or heat intolerance while taking this medicine should seek medical advice as soon as possible.

Use with caution in

- Abnormalities in sweating
- Alcoholics
- Children over 3 years old
- Chronically ill people
- Closed angle glaucoma
- Diseases of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord)
- Disturbances of mental functions including depression, psychosis or mania
- Elderly people
- Enlarged prostate gland
- Increased heart rate (tachycardia)
- Individuals involved in manual labour

Not to be used in

- Children under three years of age
- Rhythmical involuntary movement of the tongue, face, mouth and jaw, which may sometimes be accompanied by involuntary movements of the arms and legs (tardive dyskinesia)

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

- There is no information available about the safety of this medicine during pregnancy, therefore it is not recommended for use during pregnancy, unless considered essential by your doctor. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
- This medicine may pass into breast milk. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

- This medication may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery. Avoid alcoholic drink.

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