ARTANE (TRIHEXYPHENIDYL)

Description of Artane

Artane is an anticholinergic prescription drug that may be prescribed as an add-on to the regular treatment for the symptoms of tremors and rigidity in Parkinson’s disease. Artane is not recommended for those older than 70 years of age due to their impaired mental status as PD progresses, but for younger adults that are just beginning to experience the tremors.

One of the main causes for Parkinson’s is an imbalance of the brain chemicals dopamine and acetylcholine. Your doctor will prescribe a drug to increase dopamine levels and Artane or generic Trihexyphenidyl will decrease acetylcholine levels to control your early symptoms so you can still function well and carry out your daily tasks. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

How Artane Decreases Tremors and Rigidity

When taken as directed, Artane blocks the action of acetylcholine so the levels of this neurotransmitter in your body become lower which allows your dopamine levels to increase. This increase of dopamine helps to improve your movements while cutting back on acetylcholine calms your muscle actions. Your movements become less shaky and you’re able to move around better without the tremors interfering.

Conditions Treated with Artane

Although there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, Artane can help during the earlier stages to reduce the tremors that are usually one of the first symptoms to appear. The cause of PD is still unknown despite decades of intensive study and research. This progressive disease involves the death of essential nerve cells in your brain, some of which are responsible for producing dopamine. This neurotransmitter is responsible for controlling movement and as the levels become lower, tremors become apparent. Artane has also been prescribed for treating some of the severe reactions some individuals may have to certain drugs prescribed for psychotic disorders.

Before You Take Artane

Ask your doctor if Artane is safe for you to take if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are breast feeding. Make certain your prescribing physician is aware of other medical conditions or allergies you have and any over the counter or Rx medications you currently take or use, including herbal remedies and vitamin or dietary supplements. It can then be decided if Artane is safe for you to take and whether any of your drugs need dosage adjustments.

Important Information About Artane

Until you know how Artane is going to affect you, avoid performing any tasks that are considered risky or unsafe. You should not drink alcohol while taking Artane due to a possible increase in any side effects. When Artane is no longer able to control your tremors, your doctor will gradually decrease the dosage of this medication to avoid any withdrawal symptoms and possibly start you on a different drug, such as Levodopa to help with the increasing symptoms as PD progresses.

Possible Side Effects of Artane

• Dry mouth
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Mild nausea
• Blurred vision