Cogentin (Benztropine Mesylate Injection) Patient Information: How Should I Take the Drug at RxList

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May 26, 2012

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Parkinson's Disease »

What is Parkinson's disease?

Parkinson's disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder and the most common movement disorder. It is characterized by progressive loss of muscle control, which leads to trembling of the limbs and head while at rest, stiffness, slowness, and impaired balance. As symptoms worsen, it may become difficult to walk, talk, and complete simple tasks.

The progression of Parkinson's disease and the degree of impairment vary from individual to individual. Many people with Parkinson's disease live long productive lives, whereas others become disabled much more quickly. Premature death is usually due to complications such as falling-related injuries or pneumonia.

In the United States, about 1 million people are affected by Parkinson's disease and worldwide about 5 million. Most individuals who develop Parkinson's disease are 60 years of age or older. Parkinson's disease occurs in approximately 1% of i...

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Cogentin Patient Information including How Should I Take

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking benztropine (Cogentin)?

You should not take this medication if you are allergic to benztropine, or if you are also taking a medication called pramlintide (Symlin).

If you have certain conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely use this medication. Before you take benztropine, tell your doctor if you have:

glaucoma;
kidney or liver disease;
heart disease, a heart rhythm disorder, or a history of heart attack or stroke;
high or low blood pressure;
asthma, emphysema, or other breathing disorder;
a nerve disorder;
a muscle disorder such as myasthenia gravis;
seizures;
enlarged prostate;
overactive thyroid;
mental illness or dementia;
infectious diarrhea, ulcerative colitis;
stomach ulcer, reflux disease, hiatal hernia; or
a history of bowel obstruction or other intestinal disorder.

FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether benztropine is harmful to an unborn baby. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether benztropine passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

Older adults may be more likely to have side effects from this medication.

Children may be more likely to have an increased heart rate while taking benztropine.

How should I take benztropine (Cogentin)?

Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Take this medicine with a full glass of water.

Benztropine is sometimes given up to 4 times daily, at meals and at bedtime. If you take benztropine only once per day, it may be best to take the medication at bedtime. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Benztropine can be taken with food to lessen stomach upset.

Your mouth may feel dry while taking benztropine. To prevent or relieve dry mouth, suck on a piece of sugar-free hard candy, chew sugar-free gum, drink water, chew on ice chips, or use a saliva substitute.

Dry mouth may lead to gum disease or cavities. Brush and floss your teeth regularly and see a dentist for routine check-ups while you are taking benztropine.

It may take up to 3 days of using this medicine before your symptoms improve. For best results, keep using the medication as directed. Talk with your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse.

Do not stop taking this medication without first talking to your doctor. Stopping suddenly may make your condition worse. You may need to use less and less before you stop the medication completely.

Store benztropine at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light

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