How does it work?

Biperiden belongs to a group of medicines called the anti-cholinergics. These medicines block cholinergic receptors in many parts of the body including the brain. It is used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and to reduce the side effects of certain anti-psychotic 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 biperiden, this balance can be restored. In this way some of the symptoms of Parkinson's disease may be controlled. Biperiden is most effective at reducing the tremor and rigidity associated with Parkinson's disease, however it has little effect on the slow movements (bradykinesia). Anti-psychotic medicines are used to 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. Biperidin 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!

This medicine may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery. Alcohol should be avoided.

You should not suddenly stop taking this medicine unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

Use with caution in

Elderly people

Seizures

Not to be used in

Blockage of the gut (intestinal obstruction)

Children

Enlarged prostate gland

Severely increased heart rate (tachycardia)

Untreated closed angle glaucoma

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.

This medicine should not be used in pregnancy unless considered essential by your doctor. It should be avoided in the first trimester. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

This medicine should not be used by breastfeeding mothers as it suppresses lactation. 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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