Benztropine

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Benztropine (Cogentin®) is an anticholinergic drug principally used for the treatment of:

Drug-induced parkinsonism, akathisia and acute dystonia;
Parkinson disease; and
Idiopathic or secondary dystonia.

Indications

It is used in patients with schizophrenia to reduce the side effects of antipsychotic treatment, such as parkinsonism and akathisia.

Benztropine is also a second-line drug for the treatment of Parkinson's disease. It improves tremor but not rigidity or bradykinesia.

Benztropine is also sometimes used for the treatment of dystonia, a rare disorder that causes abnormal muscle contraction, resulting in twisting postures of limbs, trunk, or face.

Side effects

These are principally anticholinergic:

Dry mouth
Blurred vision
Cognitive changes
Constipation
Urinary retention
Tachycardia
Anorexia
Psychosis (usually in overdose)

Some studies suggest that use of anticholinergics increases the risk of tardive dyskinesia, a long-term side effect of antipsychotics.[link][link] Other studies have found no association between anticholinergic exposure and risk of developing tardive dyskinesia.[link]

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