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Biperiden Medication: Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects Explained
Summary of Key Points
Biperiden is a medication used to manage symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders, such as drug-induced parkinsonism and acute dystonic reactions. It works by helping to balance chemicals in the brain that regulate movement. Biperiden is available in both tablet and injectable forms. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting your dose. Our telemedicine providers are available to assist you in managing your treatment.
Names of Medication
US Brand Name: Akineton
Generic Name: Biperiden
The generic name refers to the active ingredient in the medication, which is listed in parentheses after the brand name.
Pharmacologic Category
Biperiden belongs to the class of medications known as Anticholinergic Agents.
Other medications in this category include benztropine (Cogentin) and trihexyphenidyl (Artane).
Biperiden Dosage
Biperiden is prescribed for various conditions, and the dosage may differ depending on the specific condition being treated. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them before making any changes to your dose. You can also schedule a telemedicine visit with one of our providers to discuss your treatment plan.
Biperiden for Parkinson’s Disease
Initial Dose: 2 mg orally, 1-2 times daily.
Maintenance Dose: 2 mg, 3-4 times daily.
Duration: Long-term, as directed by your healthcare provider.
Biperiden for Drug-Induced Parkinsonism
Initial Dose: 2 mg orally, 1-2 times daily.
Maintenance Dose: 2 mg, 3-4 times daily.
Duration: As long as symptoms persist or as directed by your healthcare provider.
Biperiden for Acute Dystonic Reactions
Initial Dose: 2 mg orally or 2 mg via intramuscular (IM) injection.
Maintenance Dose: Repeat dose if necessary.
Duration: Short-term, typically until symptoms resolve.
Biperiden for Tardive Dyskinesia
Initial Dose: 2 mg orally, 1-2 times daily.
Maintenance Dose: Adjust based on response.
Duration: Long-term, as directed by your healthcare provider.
Biperiden for Essential Tremor
Initial Dose: 2 mg orally, 1-2 times daily.
Maintenance Dose: Adjust based on response.
Duration: Long-term, as directed by your healthcare provider.
Biperiden for Schizophrenia
Initial Dose: 2 mg orally, 1-2 times daily.
Maintenance Dose: Adjust based on response.
Duration: Long-term, as directed by your healthcare provider.
Biperiden for Anxiety Disorders
Initial Dose: 2 mg orally, 1-2 times daily.
Maintenance Dose: Adjust based on response.
Duration: Long-term, as directed by your healthcare provider.
Biperiden for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Initial Dose: 2 mg orally, 1-2 times daily.
Maintenance Dose: Adjust based on response.
Duration: Long-term, as directed by your healthcare provider.
Biperiden for Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome
Initial Dose: 2 mg orally or 2 mg via intramuscular (IM) injection.
Maintenance Dose: Repeat dose if necessary.
Duration: Short-term, typically until symptoms resolve.
Biperiden for Restless Legs Syndrome
Initial Dose: 2 mg orally, 1-2 times daily.
Maintenance Dose: Adjust based on response.
Duration: Long-term, as directed by your healthcare provider.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Tablets: 2 mg
Injectable solution: 5 mg/mL
Administration Instructions for Biperiden
Biperiden can be taken with or without food. If using the injectable form, it will be administered by a healthcare professional. Always take the medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not stop taking Biperiden suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this may worsen your symptoms. If you have any questions about how to take your medication, our telemedicine providers are here to assist you.
Contraindications for Biperiden
A contraindication is a specific situation or condition where a particular medication should not be used because it may cause harm. For Biperiden, there are several contraindications to be aware of before starting treatment, including:
- Narrow-angle glaucoma: Biperiden can increase eye pressure, worsening this condition.
- Obstructive gastrointestinal disorders: If you have a blockage in your stomach or intestines, Biperiden can slow digestion and worsen the blockage.
- Myasthenia gravis: Biperiden can exacerbate muscle weakness in people with this condition.
- Prostatic hypertrophy (enlarged prostate): Biperiden can make urination more difficult, which can be problematic for men with an enlarged prostate.
- Severe cardiovascular disease: Biperiden can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which may be dangerous for those with heart conditions.
If you have any of these conditions, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting Biperiden. You can schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers to discuss your options.
Biperiden Drug Interactions
Biperiden can interact with other medications, increasing the risk of side effects or reducing treatment effectiveness. Some medications that interact with Biperiden include:
- Antihistamines (e.g., Benadryl [diphenhydramine]): These can increase the sedative effects of Biperiden.
- Antidepressants (e.g., Elavil [amitriptyline], Prozac [fluoxetine]): These can increase side effects like dry mouth, constipation, and confusion.
- Antipsychotics (e.g., Haldol [haloperidol], Clozaril [clozapine]): These can increase the risk of movement disorders or reduce Biperiden’s effectiveness.
- Other anticholinergic drugs (e.g., Atrovent [ipratropium], Ditropan [oxybutynin]): These can increase side effects like dry mouth, blurred vision, and difficulty urinating.
- Levodopa (e.g., Sinemet [carbidopa/levodopa]): Biperiden can reduce levodopa’s effectiveness in treating Parkinson’s disease.
Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. If you’re unsure about potential interactions, schedule a telemedicine consultation with one of our providers for personalized advice.
Biperiden in Pregnancy
Is it safe to take Biperiden during pregnancy? The safety of Biperiden during pregnancy has not been well established, and there is limited data on its effects on a developing fetus. For this reason, it is generally recommended to avoid using Biperiden during pregnancy unless the potential benefits clearly outweigh the risks. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider before starting Biperiden. Our telemedicine providers are available to help you evaluate the risks and benefits based on your individual circumstances.
Biperiden while Breastfeeding
Is it safe to take Biperiden while breastfeeding? Biperiden may pass into breast milk and could potentially affect a nursing infant. Due to the lack of sufficient studies on the safety of Biperiden during breastfeeding, it is generally advised to avoid using this medication while nursing. If you are breastfeeding and require treatment for conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or movement disorders, consult your healthcare provider to explore safer alternatives. Our telemedicine team is here to assist you in making an informed decision.
Estimated Cost of Biperiden Medication
The cost of a 30-day supply of Biperiden without insurance can vary depending on the pharmacy and location. With a GoodRX coupon, the price for a 30-day supply of Biperiden (2 mg tablets) typically ranges from $15 to $30. Prices may fluctuate, so it’s a good idea to check with your local pharmacy or use a discount service like GoodRX for the most up-to-date pricing.
Possible Alternatives to Biperiden
If Biperiden is not suitable for you, there are alternative treatments and lifestyle changes that may help manage your condition. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. Our telemedicine providers are available to discuss these options with you.
- Parkinson’s disease: Alternatives include medications such as Levodopa (Sinemet) or Pramipexole (Mirapex). Exercise and physical therapy can also play a significant role in managing symptoms.
- Drug-induced parkinsonism: Reducing or discontinuing the medication causing the symptoms (under medical supervision) may help. Other medications, such as Amantadine (Symmetrel), may also be considered.
- Acute dystonic reactions: Medications like Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or Benztropine (Cogentin) are often used as alternatives.
- Tardive dyskinesia: Medications such as Valbenazine (Ingrezza) or Deutetrabenazine (Austedo) may be prescribed.
- Essential tremor: Beta-blockers like Propranolol (Inderal) or anticonvulsants such as Primidone (Mysoline) are common alternatives.
- Schizophrenia: Antipsychotic medications like Risperidone (Risperdal) or Olanzapine (Zyprexa) may be used.
- Anxiety disorders: Alternatives include SSRIs such as Sertraline (Zoloft) or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder: SSRIs like Fluoxetine (Prozac) or Clomipramine (Anafranil) are commonly prescribed.
- Neuroleptic malignant syndrome: Immediate discontinuation of the causative antipsychotic medication and supportive care are critical. In severe cases, Dantrolene or Bromocriptine may be used.
- Restless legs syndrome: Medications such as Ropinirole (Requip) or Gabapentin (Neurontin) are often prescribed. Lifestyle changes, including regular exercise and good sleep hygiene, can also be beneficial.
Recent Updates on Biperiden Research
Recent research on Biperiden has primarily focused on its use in treating movement disorders, particularly in Parkinson’s disease and drug-induced parkinsonism. Studies are also examining the long-term effects of anticholinergic drugs like Biperiden on cognitive function, especially in older adults. Some evidence suggests that prolonged use of anticholinergic medications may be associated with an increased risk of dementia, though further research is needed to confirm these findings.
Additionally, ongoing studies are exploring the potential role of Biperiden in treating psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia and anxiety disorders. While Biperiden is not typically a first-line treatment for these conditions, it may be used as an adjunct therapy in certain cases. As new research continues to emerge, staying informed about the latest developments is important. If you have any concerns or questions about Biperiden, our telemedicine providers are available to discuss them with you.
