Artane (Trihexyphenidyl)

Common Use

Artane is used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease. It can be prescribed alone or in combination with other medications. It controls rigidity, drooling, tremors, and other Parkinson's disease symptoms. It may also be prescribed to prevent similar symptoms caused by chlorpromazine (Thorazine), fluphenazine (Prolixin), perphenazine (Trilafon), and others.

Dosage and Directions

Artane should be used only by the patient for whom it has been prescribed. Do not take less or more or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Artane dosage depends on your condition and should be taken exactly as prescribed. Usually, Artane is prescribed as a capsule, tablet, or liquid taken 3-4 times a day with food at bedtime. Controlled-release Artane should be taken once to twice a day every 12 hours.

Precautions

Before taking Artane, discuss with your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease. Use it with caution as the medicine may cause dizziness or lightheadedness. Avoid drinking alcohol or taking other medicines that can worsen side effects. Do not drive or perform other potentially dangerous tasks until you know how you react to this drug. Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while taking Artane Tablets. Proper dental care is needed; brush and floss your teeth and visit the dentist regularly. If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, contact your doctor.

Contraindications

You may need a special dosage adjustment or may not be able to take this drug if you have a liver or kidney infection or gastrointestinal problems.

Possible Side Effects

The most serious side effects include severe neutropenia (low white blood cells), hemorrhage (gastrointestinal or cerebral), thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), headache, indigestion, and flushing. Seek medical help immediately if side effects do not ease after several hours.

Drug Interaction

Artane interacts with certain products including phenytoin (Dilantin), tamoxifen (Nolvadex), tolbutamide (Orinase), torsemide (Demadex), fluvastatin (Lescol), and various blood thinners (e.g., warfarin, heparin). Discuss with your doctor if you are taking these or other drugs.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

The symptoms of an Artane overdose are not well known. If you think you have overdosed, seek medical help immediately.

Storage

Keep at a temperature between 59–86°F (15–30°C), away from heat, moisture, light, and out of reach of children.