Cogentin: Uses and Mechanism of Action

What is Cogentin?

Cogentin is a medication also known as benztropine, which belongs to a class of drugs called anticholinergics.

Uses:

• Treatment of Parkinson's disease and its symptoms, such as tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia (slow movement) • Relief of extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) caused by antipsychotic medications, such as dystonia, akathisia, and pseudoparkinsonism

Mechanism of Action:

• Blocks the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that regulates muscle contractions and relaxation • Reduces the activity of dopamine in the brain, which helps to alleviate Parkinson's symptoms

Side Effects:

• Common: dry mouth, dizziness, blurred vision, constipation, and urinary retention • Less common: confusion, hallucinations, and anxiety

Contraindications:

• Narrow-angle glaucoma • Prostatic hypertrophy • Obstructive uropathy • Intestinal obstruction • Myasthenia gravis

Dosage:

• Typically starts with a low dose (0.5-1 mg) and gradually increases as needed and tolerated • Maximum dose is usually 6 mg per day

Overdose:

• Symptoms: agitation, confusion, hallucinations, and tachycardia • Treatment: supportive care, such as activated charcoal, and medications to manage symptoms

What is Cogentin?

• Cogentin is a medication also known as benztropine, classified as an anticholinergic drug.

Uses:

• Treats Parkinson's disease and its symptoms, including tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia (slow movement).
• Relieves extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) caused by antipsychotic medications, such as dystonia, akathisia, and pseudoparkinsonism.

Mechanism of Action:

• Blocks the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter regulating muscle contractions and relaxation.
• Reduces dopamine activity in the brain, alleviating Parkinson's symptoms.

Side Effects:

• Common: dry mouth, dizziness, blurred vision, constipation, and urinary retention.
• Less common: confusion, hallucinations, and anxiety.

Contraindications:

• Narrow-angle glaucoma.
• Prostatic hypertrophy.
• Obstructive uropathy.
• Intestinal obstruction.
• Myasthenia gravis.

Dosage:

• Typically starts with a low dose (0.5-1 mg) and gradually increases as needed and tolerated.
• Maximum dose is usually 6 mg per day.

Overdose:

• Symptoms: agitation, confusion, hallucinations, and tachycardia.
• Treatment: supportive care, such as activated charcoal, and medications to manage symptoms.