Description

Artane (Trihexyphenidyl) 2mg

Artane (Trihexyphenidyl) 2mg is a prescription anticholinergic medication used primarily to treat symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and extrapyramidal side effects (EPS) caused by certain psychiatric medications (like antipsychotics).

Quick Overview

• Generic name: Trihexyphenidyl

• Brand name: Artane

• Strength: 2 mg (also available in 5 mg)

• Drug class: Anticholinergic / Antiparkinsonian agent

• Prescription only

Used For

1. Parkinson’s disease

   • Helps reduce tremor, rigidity, and muscle stiffness

2. Drug-induced extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS)

   • Used to treat side effects like muscle spasms, restlessness, or stiffness from antipsychotic meds (e.g., haloperidol, risperidone)

How It Works

Trihexyphenidyl blocks acetylcholine in the brain, restoring the dopamine-acetylcholine balance. This is key in Parkinson’s and in managing movement-related side effects from certain psychiatric drugs.

How to Take It

• Typical dose:

  • Start low (e.g., 1 mg once daily) and increase gradually

  • Maintenance dose: usually 6–10 mg/day, divided into 2–4 doses

  • For drug-induced symptoms, doses are usually lower

• Best taken with meals to reduce stomach upset

Common Side Effects

• Dry mouth

• Blurred vision

• Drowsiness or dizziness

• Constipation

• Difficulty urinating

• Nervousness or confusion (especially in older adults)

Serious Risks

• Cognitive impairment or hallucinations (more common in the elderly)

• Heatstroke risk (reduced sweating) in hot environments

• Addiction potential in some psychiatric patients (rare but documented)

• Worsening of glaucoma or prostate issues

Avoid If You Have:

• Narrow-angle glaucoma

• Urinary retention or prostate enlargement

• GI obstruction

• Severe cognitive impairment or dementia

 Note for Psychiatric Use

Trihexyphenidyl is frequently prescribed in psychiatric settings to treat EPS caused by older antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol). It’s not typically used with newer atypical antipsychotics unless EPS is present.

 Summary

Artane 2 mg (Trihexyphenidyl) is a helpful movement-symptom medication used in both neurology (Parkinson’s) and psychiatry (EPS management). It needs cautious dosing and monitoring—especially in older adults or those with cognitive or urinary concerns.