Capsules, injection
To treat Parkinson's disease or the adverse effects of some central nervous system drugs, which produce Parkinson-like symptoms or affect muscle control.
The exact mechanism of action is unknown, but it is believed to help increase the release of certain neurological chemicals that improve control over muscle movement.
For Parkinson's disease: 0.5 to 6 mg per day in 1 dose at bedtime. For drug-induced Parkinson reactions: 1 to 4 mg per day either in 1 dose or 2 to 3 doses. For drug-induced nervous system effects: 1 to 4 mg per day in 1 to 3 doses.
Within 1 to 2 hours.
Up to 24 hours.
Benztropine can be taken with food to reduce stomach irritation.
Store this medicine in a tightly sealed container away from heat and direct light.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless the next scheduled dose is to be taken within 2 hours. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your normal schedule. Do not double the next dose.
Do not stop taking benztropine suddenly. If therapy is to be discontinued, dosage should be reduced gradually, according to your doctor's instructions.
Prolonged use of this drug may increase pressure in the eye and thus increase the risk of glaucoma, especially in older persons.
Side effects may be more common in older persons. Smaller starting doses are advisable.
Avoid driving and hazardous work until you determine if the drug causes drowsiness.
Alcohol should be avoided or used with caution because it may increase the sedative effects of this medication.
Benztropine may affect the unborn child's intestinal tract. Do not use the drug while pregnant.
It is not known whether benztropine passes into breast milk. Do not use the drug while breast feeding.
Not generally prescribed for children under the age of 3. Your doctor must determine the exact dosage for older children.
Eye pressure should be measured regularly because of the risk of glaucoma. Limit physical activity in hot weather.
Clumsiness, drowsiness, fast or slow heartbeat, flushed skin, breathing difficulty, seizures, loss of consciousness, muscle weakness, inability to sweat, uncoordinated movement.
Call your doctor, emergency medical services (EMS), or the nearest poison control center immediately.
The activity of benztropine can affect or be affected by many drugs. Talk to your doctor about any drug you are taking, especially phenothiazines, tricyclic antidepressants, and amantadine.
None are expected.
Consult your doctor if you have glaucoma, high blood pressure, heart disease, impaired liver function, kidney disease, or myasthenia gravis.