Generic name: Trihexyphenidyl
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data not available
What is Artane?
Trihexyphenidyl is used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease (stiffness, tremors, spasms, poor muscle control).
Trihexyphenidyl is also used to treat and prevent Parkinson-like symptoms that are caused by using certain anti-psychotic medications.
Trihexyphenidyl may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use trihexyphenidyl if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
- narrow-angle glaucoma.
Tell your doctor if you have ever had:
- glaucoma;
- an enlarged prostate;
- urination problems;
- a bowel obstruction, severe constipation, or toxic megacolon;
- epilepsy or other seizure disorder;
- heart problems;
- coronary artery disease (clogged arteries);
- high blood pressure;
- alcoholism; or
- a problem with your nerves, brain, or spinal cord.
Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.
How should I use Artane
Use Artane (Oral) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.
Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
Your doctor will tell you whether you should take trihexyphenidyl before or after a meal.
Take the medicine with food if it upsets your stomach.
If trihexyphenidyl causes your mouth to feel dry, you may need to take it before meals.
You may also use mints, chewing gum, or water if you have a very dry mouth or you feel very thirsty.
The pressure inside your eyes will need to be checked while you are taking trihexyphenidyl.
You should not stop using trihexyphenidyl suddenly. Stopping suddenly may make your condition worse.
Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Do not freeze.
Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.
Artane side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have:
- blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain, or seeing halos around lights;
- hot and dry skin, or a lack of sweating even if you feel hot;
- rapid or jerky repetitive involuntary movement;
- severe constipation;
- painful or difficult urination;
- unusual thoughts or behavior;
- confusion, memory problems; or
- severe nervous system reaction--very stiff (rigid) muscles, high fever, sweating, confusion, fast or uneven heartbeats, tremors, feeling like you might pass out.
Common side effects may include:
- blurred vision;
- dry mouth;
- constipation, decreased urination;
- dizziness, drowsiness, weakness;
- nausea, vomiting;
- headache; or
- feeling restless or nervous.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
What other drugs will affect Artane?
Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise and in hot weather. Trihexyphenidyl can decrease sweating and you may be more prone to heat stroke.
Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.
Avoid using cannabis, CBD, or marijuana while taking trihexyphenidyl.
Avoid drinking alcohol. It may increase your risk of side effects.