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Benzotropine: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Interactions
Summary of Key Points
Benzotropine is a prescription medication used to manage symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and certain movement disorders caused by medications, such as drug-induced extrapyramidal symptoms. It works by helping to balance chemicals in the brain that regulate movement. Benzotropine is available in both tablet and injectable forms. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting your dose. You can also reach out to one of our providers through telemedicine for personalized advice.
Names of Medication
US Brand Name: Cogentin (Benzotropine)
The generic name refers to the active ingredient in the medication, listed in parentheses after the brand name.
Pharmacologic Category
Anticholinergic Agent
Antiparkinsonian Agent
Benzotropine Dosage
Benzotropine is prescribed for various conditions, each with its own recommended dosage. Always follow your doctor’s instructions and never change your dose without consulting your healthcare provider. If you have any questions, you can speak to one of our providers through telemedicine.
Benzotropine for Parkinson’s Disease
Initial dose: 0.5 mg to 1 mg once or twice daily.
Maintenance dose: 1 mg to 2 mg daily, depending on symptom control.
Length of treatment: Long-term, as prescribed by your doctor.
Benzotropine for Drug-Induced Extrapyramidal Symptoms
Initial dose: 1 mg to 4 mg once or twice daily.
Maintenance dose: Adjusted based on symptom control, typically 1 mg to 4 mg daily.
Length of treatment: Until symptoms are managed or the offending medication is discontinued.
Benzotropine for Acute Dystonia
Initial dose: 1 mg to 2 mg, either orally or by injection, as needed.
Maintenance dose: As directed by your healthcare provider.
Length of treatment: Short-term, until symptoms resolve.
Benzotropine for Tardive Dyskinesia
Initial dose: 1 mg to 2 mg daily.
Maintenance dose: Adjusted based on symptom control, typically 1 mg to 4 mg daily.
Length of treatment: As directed by your healthcare provider.
Benzotropine for Restless Legs Syndrome
Initial dose: 0.5 mg to 2 mg daily, typically at bedtime.
Maintenance dose: Adjusted based on symptom control.
Length of treatment: As directed by your healthcare provider.
Benzotropine for Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome
Initial dose: 1 mg to 2 mg, either orally or by injection, as needed.
Maintenance dose: As directed by your healthcare provider.
Length of treatment: Short-term, until symptoms resolve.
Benzotropine for Schizophrenia
Initial dose: 1 mg to 2 mg daily.
Maintenance dose: Adjusted based on symptom control, typically 1 mg to 4 mg daily.
Length of treatment: As directed by your healthcare provider.
Benzotropine for Anxiety Disorders
Initial dose: 0.5 mg to 2 mg daily.
Maintenance dose: Adjusted based on symptom control.
Length of treatment: As directed by your healthcare provider.
Benzotropine for Depression
Initial dose: 0.5 mg to 2 mg daily.
Maintenance dose: Adjusted based on symptom control.
Length of treatment: As directed by your healthcare provider.
Benzotropine for Insomnia
Initial dose: 0.5 mg to 2 mg daily, typically at bedtime.
Maintenance dose: Adjusted based on symptom control.
Length of treatment: As directed by your healthcare provider.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Tablet: 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg
Injection: 1 mg/mL
Administration Instructions for Benzotropine
Benzotropine can be taken orally in tablet form or administered as an injection by a healthcare professional. If taking the tablet form, it can be taken with or without food. It’s important to take the medication at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in your bloodstream. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next dose. Do not double up on doses. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully.
Benzotropine Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
Like all medications, Benzotropine can cause side effects. Some are more common, while others are rare but serious. If you experience any side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately. You can also schedule a telemedicine visit with one of our providers for further guidance.
Common side effects: Dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, nausea, and dizziness. These side effects are usually mild and may improve as your body adjusts to the medication.
Less common side effects: Difficulty urinating, confusion, memory problems, and increased heart rate. These may require medical attention.
Serious side effects (rare): Severe allergic reactions, hallucinations, and muscle weakness. If you experience any of these, seek medical help immediately.
Contraindications for Benzotropine
A contraindication is a specific situation or condition where a medication should not be used because it may cause harm. It’s important to be aware of these conditions to avoid serious side effects or complications. Below are the contraindications for taking Benzotropine:
Narrow-angle glaucoma: Benzotropine can increase intraocular pressure, which may worsen this type of glaucoma.
Myasthenia gravis: This medication can further weaken muscles, which is dangerous for people with this condition.
Obstructive diseases of the gastrointestinal tract: Benzotropine can slow down the movement of the digestive system, which may worsen conditions like bowel obstruction.
Urinary retention: Benzotropine can make it harder to urinate, which can be problematic for people who already have trouble emptying their bladder.
Hypersensitivity to Benzotropine: If you have had an allergic reaction to Benzotropine in the past, you should not take it again.
If you have any of these conditions, discuss them with your healthcare provider before starting Benzotropine. Our telemedicine providers are available to help you determine the best treatment options for your situation.
Benztropine Drug Interactions
Benztropine can interact with other medications, potentially increasing side effects or reducing the effectiveness of your treatment. Below are some drugs that may interact with Benztropine:
- Antihistamines: Medications like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) may increase drowsiness and confusion when taken with Benztropine.
- Tricyclic antidepressants: Drugs such as amitriptyline (Elavil) or nortriptyline (Pamelor) can intensify anticholinergic side effects, including dry mouth, constipation, and confusion.
- Antipsychotic medications: Medications like haloperidol (Haldol) or chlorpromazine (Thorazine) may worsen side effects such as tardive dyskinesia when combined with Benztropine.
- Other anticholinergic drugs: Medications such as oxybutynin (Ditropan) or tolterodine (Detrol) can increase side effects like dry mouth, blurred vision, and difficulty urinating.
- Opioid pain medications: Drugs like oxycodone (OxyContin) or hydrocodone (Vicodin) may heighten the risk of drowsiness, confusion, and breathing difficulties when used with Benztropine.
Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Our telemedicine providers can help review your medications to ensure there are no harmful interactions with Benztropine.
Benztropine and Pregnancy
Is it safe to take Benztropine during pregnancy?
The safety of Benztropine during pregnancy has not been well studied. It is classified as a pregnancy category C drug, meaning there is insufficient research to determine its safety for pregnant women. While animal studies have shown potential risks, no well-controlled studies exist in humans. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it’s important to discuss the risks and benefits of Benztropine with your healthcare provider. Our telemedicine providers can help you make an informed decision about your treatment during pregnancy.
Benztropine and Breastfeeding
Is it safe to take Benztropine while breastfeeding?
There is limited information available about the safety of Benztropine while breastfeeding. It is unclear whether Benztropine passes into breast milk or what effects it may have on a nursing infant. Due to the lack of data, it is generally recommended to avoid Benztropine while breastfeeding unless the benefits clearly outweigh the risks. If you are breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider to determine if Benztropine is the right choice for you. Our telemedicine providers can discuss alternative treatments that may be safer during breastfeeding.
Estimated Cost of Benztropine Medication
The cost of a 30-day supply of Benztropine without insurance can vary depending on the pharmacy and location. Using a GoodRx coupon, the estimated cost for a 30-day supply of Benztropine (1 mg tablets) is around $10 to $15. Check with your pharmacy for the most accurate pricing, and consider using a GoodRx coupon to save on your prescription.
Possible Alternatives to Benztropine
If Benztropine is not suitable for you, there are alternative treatments and lifestyle changes that may help manage the conditions it treats. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. Our telemedicine providers can help you explore these options.
- Parkinson’s disease: Alternatives include medications like levodopa/carbidopa (Sinemet) or dopamine agonists such as pramipexole (Mirapex). Physical therapy and regular exercise may also help improve symptoms.
- Drug-induced extrapyramidal symptoms: Medications such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or amantadine (Symmetrel) may help manage these symptoms.
- Acute dystonia: Alternatives include diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or diazepam (Valium).
- Tardive dyskinesia: Medications like valbenazine (Ingrezza) or deutetrabenazine (Austedo) may be used to treat this condition.
- Restless legs syndrome: Dopamine agonists like ropinirole (Requip) or gabapentin (Neurontin) may be considered. Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and good sleep hygiene can also help.
- Neuroleptic malignant syndrome: Immediate discontinuation of the offending drug and supportive care are the primary treatments. Medications like dantrolene (Dantrium) or bromocriptine (Parlodel) may be used in severe cases.
- Schizophrenia: Other antipsychotic medications such as risperidone (Risperdal) or aripiprazole (Abilify) may be considered. Psychotherapy and lifestyle changes, such as stress management, can also be beneficial.
- Anxiety disorders: Alternatives include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline (Zoloft) or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
- Depression: SSRIs like fluoxetine (Prozac) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like venlafaxine (Effexor) may be considered. Regular exercise and mindfulness practices can also help improve mood.
- Insomnia: Alternatives include medications like zolpidem (Ambien) or cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I). Good sleep hygiene practices, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, can also be helpful.
Recent Updates on Benztropine Research
Recent research on Benztropine has explored its potential use in treating conditions beyond its traditional applications, such as Parkinson’s disease and drug-induced movement disorders. Some studies have investigated its role in managing cognitive symptoms in schizophrenia, though more research is needed to confirm these findings. Additionally, ongoing research is examining the long-term effects of Benztropine on tardive dyskinesia and other movement disorders. As new studies emerge, it’s important to stay informed and discuss any developments with your healthcare provider. Our telemedicine providers can help you stay updated on the latest research and how it may impact your treatment plan.
