Artane: Drug Information

Generic name: Trihexphenidyl

Brand name: Benhexol, Barohexy, Bexol, Lahexy, Manohexy, Pacitane, Parkin, Texy, Triphen

Drug Class: Anticholinergic, Antiparkinson Agent

Action of Artane:

Artane is an anticholinergis, antiparkinson drug with antispasmodic properties that works by blocking the action of the parasympathetic innervated peripheral structures. When taken in small doses, the medicine weakens the central nervous system (CNS) and in larger doses it causes cerebral excitement. It is used in the prevention and treatment of extra pyramidal symptoms, Idiopathic, Post encephalitic and Atherosclerotic Parkinsonism.

Indications and Dosage:

It is recommended to take the medicine as prescribed by your doctor. It can be taken with or without food at regular intervals. DO NOT stop taking Artane abruptly even if you feel you are getting better without prior notification to your doctor.

Warning and Precautions:

Artane should not be taken by patients with close angled glaucoma, chronic pulmonary disease, sinusitis, thyrotoxicosis, heart disease and tachycardia.

This medicine should not be taken during lactation as it may pass into the breast milk and cause undesired effects on the baby.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant as caution is advised while taking the medicine during pregnancy.

Patients with a history of glaucoma, obstructive gastro intestinal disease, kidney disease’ liver disease, asthma, thyroid disease or heart disease must take caution and speak to their doctor before taking the medicine.

Elderly males with enlarged prostrate also need to take caution.

Careful drug monitoring is advised in patients taking Artane for a prolonged period of time.

Side effects:

Some of the most common side effects of Artane are dryness of the mouth, blurred vision, constipation, glaucoma, drowsiness, hallucinations, excitability, confusion and dizziness. Almost 30 -50 percent of individuals taking Artane experience these side effects but as the body becomes accustomed to the medicine they begin to fade away. Other side effects that are not so common include central nervous system (CNS) depression, mydriasis, palpitations, shock and ataxia.

Drug Interaction:

Artane delays the absorption of other medicines.

It should not be co-administered with tricyclic antidepressants, antiparkinsonian drugs, antihistaminic drugs and phenothiazines.