Benzatropine - oral


Patient Medicine Information
Why do I need this medicine?
Benzatropine is used together with other medicines to treat Parkinson's disease. Parkinson's disease is a disorder that affects movement of a person, causing symptoms such as tremors, muscle stiffness, slowed movement and impaired balance or walking.

Benzatropine does not cure Parkinson's disease but it can improve the quality of life for people who have the disease.

Benzatropine is sometimes used to treat other conditions, as decided by your doctor.
How do I take this medicine?
Take Benzatropine exactly as directed by your doctor or according to the instructions on the label. Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor.

Try to take Benzatropine at the same time each day, preferably at bedtime.

Benzatropine must be taken regularly for it to be effective. Continue taking Benzatropine even when you feel better. Do not stop taking Benzatropine unless instructed otherwise, as stopping it suddenly could worsen your condition.
What should I do if I have forgotten to take this medicine?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal schedule.

DO NOT double a dose under any circumstances.

If you often forget to take your medicine, let your doctor or pharmacist know.
When should I not use this medicine?
Alert your doctor if you have the following conditions:

- glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye)
- tardive dyskinesia (a condition which causes uncontrollable twitching movements of the mouth, tongue and limbs)
- myasthenia gravis (muscle weakness disorder)
as Benzatropine may not be suitable for you.

Do not give Benzatropine to children below 3 years old unless instructed to do so by the doctor.
What should I take note of while using this medicine?
Inform your doctor if you have the following conditions:

- kidney disease
- liver disease
- heart disease
- high or low blood pressure
- history of mental illness
- prostate enlargement or urinary problems
- stomach or bladder blockage

Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

As Benzatropine may cause the pressure in your eyes to increase, you will need to have regular eye examination to monitor for any changes in your eyes. Your doctor will advise you about how often you need to have these tests.
What side effects could I experience?
Benzatropine may cause drowsiness, tiredness and dizziness. If affected, do not drive or take part in any activity in which you need to be alert.

Dry mouth is a common side effect of Benzatropine. If you experience severe dry mouth, take some sweets, mints or chewing gum to help reduce the discomfort.

Other side effects include any of the following: vomiting, nausea, stomach pain, constipation, urinary difficulties, headache, blurred vision and fast heartbeat. These side effects are common especially when you have just started taking Benzatropine.

Benzatropine reduces the ability of your body to sweat. Avoid exposure to excessive sunlight or exercise which may cause your body to overheat as you are not able to sweat.

Let your doctor know if you experience:

- confusion and hallucinations (seeing, hearing or feeling things that are not existent)
- rashes

Inform your doctor if any of these side effects do not go away or are severe, or if you experience other side effects.
Can I take this with other medicines?
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any of these medicines:

- medicines for mood disorder e.g. chlorpromazine, haloperidol
- medicines for depression or sleep e.g. clomipramine, doxepin
- medicines for cold or allergy e.g. chlorpheniramine
- other medicines for Parkinson's disease e.g. amantadine
- Alzheimer's disease medicine e.g. donepezil

This list does not include all medicines that may interact with Benzatropine.

Always notify your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics such as traditional Chinese medicine, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Avoid alcohol.
How should I store this medicine?
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children.

Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
This information is independently developed by MIMS based on benzatropine - oral and is provided for your reference only. It is not a replacement for and should only be used in conjunction with full consultation with a licensed healthcare professional, the information provided by your pharmacist and/or the manufacturer of the medication. It may not contain all the available information you require and cannot substitute professional medical care, nor does it take into account all individual circumstances. Although great effort has been made to ensure content accuracy, we shall not be held responsible or liable for any claims or damages arising from the use or misuse of the information contained herein, its contents or omissions, or otherwise. Copyright © 2024 MIMS. All rights reserved. Powered by MIMS.com
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