Why is this medication prescribed?

Artane (Generic Trihexyphenidyl) is primarily prescribed to manage the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders, such as:

• Parkinson’s disease: It helps control symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and muscle rigidity.
• Extrapyramidal symptoms: It can also be used to treat movement disorders caused by certain medications, particularly antipsychotics.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how you should use it:

• Dosage: Follow the dosage prescribed by your healthcare provider. Dosages typically start low and are gradually increased to find the optimal amount for managing symptoms.
• Administration: Take Artane orally, with or without food, usually in the form of tablets. It’s important to take it at the same times each day to maintain consistent blood levels.
• Monitoring: Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are important to monitor for side effects and adjust the dosage as needed.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next dose. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Storage: Store Artane at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Artane properly, following local guidelines or returning it to a drug take-back program.
• Emergency/Overdose: In case of an overdose or severe side effects, seek medical attention immediately.

If you have specific concerns or symptoms, always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Other uses for this medicine

• Drug-Induced Extrapyramidal Symptoms: Artane is often used to alleviate movement disorders caused by certain antipsychotic medications, which can include tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia (slowness of movement).
• Other Movement Disorders: In some cases, it may be used for other movement disorders, such as dystonia, though this is less common.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions to Follow for Artane:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of allergies to trihexyphenidyl or any other medications.
• Medical Conditions: Let your doctor know if you have any medical conditions, particularly:
  • Glaucoma: Trihexyphenidyl may increase intraocular pressure.
  • Prostate Issues: It can cause urinary retention, which might be problematic if you have an enlarged prostate.
  • Heart Conditions: It can affect heart rate and blood pressure.
  • Gastrointestinal Conditions: It may cause or worsen gastrointestinal issues like constipation.
• Interactions: Be aware of potential interactions with other medications. Trihexyphenidyl can interact with other anticholinergic drugs, and certain antidepressants, antihistamines, or medications for motion sickness.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Artane can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. Avoid activities that require full mental alertness until you know how the medication affects you.
• Heat and Dehydration: Be cautious in hot weather or during strenuous exercise, as trihexyphenidyl can reduce sweating and increase the risk of heat stroke.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, as the effects of trihexyphenidyl on an unborn baby or nursing infant are not fully known.
• Tapering Off: Do not stop taking Artane abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider. Dosage should be reduced gradually if discontinuation is necessary.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and report any unusual symptoms or side effects.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Artane. However, maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated can help manage side effects like constipation.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Timing: If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it as soon as you recall.
• Next Dose: If it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
• Routine: Try to set a routine or use a reminder system to help remember your doses.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Artane (trihexyphenidyl) can cause a range of side effects. Common and less common side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Dry Mouth: A common anticholinergic effect.
• Drowsiness: It can cause sedation or drowsiness.
• Dizziness: May lead to lightheadedness or vertigo.
• Constipation: Due to its anticholinergic properties.
• Blurred Vision: A possible effect on eye focus.

Less Common Side Effects:

• Nausea and Vomiting: Digestive upset can occur.
• Urinary Retention: Difficulty urinating or a feeling of incomplete bladder emptying.
• Confusion or Memory Problems: Cognitive effects like confusion or difficulty concentrating.
• Rapid Heartbeat (Tachycardia): Increased heart rate.
• Hallucinations: Rare but possible, especially in higher doses or in sensitive individuals.
• Heat Stroke: Due to reduced sweating, especially in hot weather or during strenuous activity.
• Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms like rash, itching, or swelling.
• Severe Confusion or Psychosis: Rare but serious.
• Increased Eye Pressure: Could worsen glaucoma.

If you experience any severe or unusual symptoms, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider immediately. They can help manage side effects and adjust your treatment if needed.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Artane (Trihexyphenidyl):

• Storage:
  • Store Artane at room temperature, typically between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
  • Keep the medication in a dry place, away from moisture and heat.
  • Keep it in its original container with the lid tightly closed to protect it from light and air.
  • Keep the medication out of reach of children.
• Disposal:
  • Do not flush Artane down the toilet or pour it into a drain. Instead, use a drug take-back program if available.
  • Follow any specific disposal instructions provided by your pharmacist or on the medication label.
  • You can check the FDA’s website for local drug take-back programs or disposal guidelines.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms may include severe drowsiness, confusion, hallucinations, difficulty urinating, rapid heartbeat, or convulsions.
• Seek Medical Help: Contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately if you suspect an overdose.
• Call Poison Control: In the U.S., you can call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for advice.
• Information to Provide: Be prepared to give information about the amount of medication taken, the time it was taken, and any symptoms experienced.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are important to monitor for side effects and adjust your dosage as needed.
• Medication Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Be cautious with activities that require mental alertness, such as driving, until you understand how the medication affects you.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss any potential risks with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and keep them informed about any changes in your health or medication regimen.