Generic name: benztropine (oral/injection) [ BENZ-troe-peen ]
Brand name: Cogentin
Dosage forms: injectable solution (1 mg/mL), oral tablet (0.5 mg; 1 mg; 2 mg)
Drug class: Anticholinergic antiparkinson agents

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Aug 3, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is benztropine?

Benztropine is used with other medicines to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease, such as stiffness or tremors.

Benztropine is also used to treat Parkinson-like symptoms caused by using certain medicines.

Benztropine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Benztropine side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Benztropine may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• dry mouth that causes trouble talking or swallowing;

• little or no urination;

• uncontrolled muscle movements;

• vomiting, severe constipation;

• fast heartbeats;

• muscle weakness;

• blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain, or seeing halos around lights;

• confusion, hallucinations; or

• severe skin rash.

Common side effects of benztropine may include:

• dry mouth;

• blurred vision;

• constipation; or

• nausea.

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.

Warnings

Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Before taking this medicine

You should not use benztropine if you are allergic to it.

Not approved for use by anyone younger than 3 years old.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• an enlarged prostate;

• urination problems;

• glaucoma; or

• muscle problems.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of benztropine.

It is not known if benztropine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding.

How should I take benztropine?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Benztropine oral is taken by mouth.

Benztropine is usually taken at bedtime.

Benztropine injection is given in a muscle or vein if you are unable to take the medicine by mouth.

Drink plenty of water to prevent dry mouth while taking benztropine.

Dry mouth may lead to gum disease or cavities. Brush and floss your teeth regularly and visit your dentist for routine dental care.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.

Your symptoms may get worse if you stop using benztropine suddenly. Ask your doctor before stopping any of your anti-Parkinson medications.

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

Related/similar drugs

diphenhydramine, ropinirole, Benadryl, pramipexole, amantadine, Sinemet, Cogentin, trihexyphenidyl, Exelon, Gocovri

What happens if I miss a dose?

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.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose may cause drowsiness, confusion, nervousness, hallucinations, fast heart rate, vomiting, numbness in your fingers, hot or dry skin, or fainting.

What should I avoid while taking benztropine?

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how benztropine will affect you. Your reactions could be impaired.

Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise and in hot weather. Benztropine can decrease sweating and you may be more prone to heat stroke.

What other drugs will affect benztropine?

Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially:

• other medicine to treat Parkinson's disease;

• medicine to treat depression, anxiety, mood disorders, or mental illness;

• cold or allergy medicine (Benadryl and others);

• medicine to treat stomach problems, motion sickness, or irritable bowel syndrome;

• medicine to treat overactive bladder; or

• bronchodilator asthma medication.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect benztropine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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