Uses Of Trihexyphenidyl
Trihexyphenidyl is used along with other medications to treat the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (PD; a disorder of the nervous system that causes difficulties with movement, muscle control, and balance) and to control extrapyramidal symptoms (tremor, slurred speech) caused by certain medications. Trihexyphenidyl is in a class of medications called antimuscarinics. It works by relaxing muscles and nerve impulses that control the function of muscles.
Side Effects Of Trihexyphenidyl
Trihexyphenidyl may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- dizziness or blurred vision
- dry mouth
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- constipation
- headache
- difficulty urinating
Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- rash
- fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeat
- fever
- confusion
- delusions or hallucinations
Trihexyphenidyl may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while you are taking this medication.
Warnings & Precautions
Before taking trihexyphenidyl:
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to trihexyphenidyl, any other medications, or any of the ingredients in trihexyphenidyl preparation. Ask your doctor or pharmacist or check the package label for a list of the ingredients.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Be sure to mention any of the following: tranquilizers.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had glaucoma, high blood pressure, problems with your urinary system or prostate, stomach problems, or heart, kidney, or liver disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. If you become pregnant while taking trihexyphenidyl, call your doctor.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking trihexyphenidyl.
- talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking trihexyphenidyl if you are 65 years of age or older. Older adults should not usually take trihexyphenidyl because it is not as safe or effective as other medications that can be used to treat the same condition.
Dosage
Trihexyphenidyl comes as a tablet and elixir (liquid) to take by mouth. It usually is taken with or without food three or four times a day. Take trihexyphenidyl at around the same time(s) every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take trihexyphenidyl exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Do not stop taking trihexyphenidyl suddenly without talking with your doctor, especially if you are also taking other medications. Sudden stoppage can cause symptoms of Parkinson’s disease to return.
Other
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to trihexyphenidyl.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Source
All information has been provided courtesy of MedLinePlus from the National Library of Medicine and from the FDA.
