Benztropine
Benztropine
Benztropine (pronounced: benz-TROH-peen), also known by its trade name Cogentin, is a medication primarily used to treat Parkinson's disease and extrapyramidal symptoms. It is an anticholinergic drug that is believed to work by blocking the action of a certain natural substance (acetylcholine) in the brain.
Etymology
The term "Benztropine" is derived from its chemical structure, which is a combination of the structures of atropine and diphenhydramine. The prefix "benz-" is derived from "benzene", a component of its structure, and "-tropine" is derived from "atropine", a related anticholinergic drug.
Usage
Benztropine is used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease or involuntary movements due to the side effects of certain psychiatric drugs (antipsychotics such as chlorpromazine/haloperidol). It helps to reduce muscle stiffness, sweating, and the production of saliva, and helps improve walking ability in people with Parkinson's disease.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Benztropine include dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, and difficulty urinating. Serious side effects may include memory problems, mood changes, and hallucinations.
Related Terms
- Parkinson's disease: A neurodegenerative disorder that affects predominately dopamine-producing neurons in a specific area of the brain.
- Anticholinergic: A substance that blocks the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the central and the peripheral nervous system.
- Extrapyramidal symptoms: Drug-induced movement disorders that include acute and tardive symptoms.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Benztropine
- Wikipedia's article - Benztropine
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