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Trihexyphenidyl

Information about Trihexyphenidyl

Trihexyphenidyl Uses

Trihexyphenidyl is used in Parkinson's disease and drug induced abnormal movements.

How Trihexyphenidyl works

Trihexyphenidyl is an anticholinergic medication. It works by decreasing the activity of a chemical messenger (acetylcholine) in the brain. This improves muscle control and reduces stiffness in Parkinson's disease. It also improves movement disorder (restlessness, involuntary movements or muscle spasm) caused by certain other medicines.

Common side effects of Trihexyphenidyl

Dryness in mouth, Nausea1a, Vomiting, Constipation, Blurred vision, Dizziness, Upset stomach, Headache, Difficulty in urination, Nervousness

CONTENT DETAILS

Written By

Dr. Swati Mishra

BDS

Reviewed By

Dr. Shilpa Garcha

MD (Pharmacology), MBBS

Last updated

18 Sep 2021 | 02:43 PM (UTC)

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Available Medicine for Trihexyphenidyl

Expert advice for Trihexyphenidyl

Dry mouth may occur as a side effect. Frequent mouth rinses, good oral hygiene, increased water intake and sugarless candy may help.
It may cause dry eyes. Avoid wearing contact lenses and inform your doctor if it bothers you.
It may cause dizziness and sleepiness. Do not drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how it affects you.
Monitoring of intraocular pressure is required while taking this medicine, as an increase in eye pressure may cause blurry vision.
Inform your doctor if you suffer from glaucoma or if you have trouble passing urine.

Frequently asked questions for Trihexyphenidyl

Trihexyphenidyl

Q. Is Trihexyphenidyl a narcotic? Can I get high after taking Trihexyphenidyl?

No, Trihexyphenidyl is not a narcotic. However, its hallucinogenic and euphoriant properties may make the people abuse its use.

Q. Does Trihexyphenidyl make you drowsy?

Yes, Trihexyphenidyl may cause drowsiness in some cases. Some people may even experience difficulty in falling asleep. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery when you experience drowsiness or if it causes blurring of vision, dizziness, mild nausea and mental confusion.

Q. What happens if more than the recommended doses of Trihexyphenidyl are taken?

Taking more than the recommended doses of Trihexyphenidyl may cause flushing of the skin, nausea, vomiting, dilated pupils, increased heartbeat, rapid respiration, fever, increase in blood pressure, and dryness of mouth, tongue and skin. A rash may appear on the face or upper trunk. You may also experience restlessness, confusion, hallucinations, paranoid and psychotic reactions, incoordination, delirium (a state of mental confusion and emotional disruption) and occasionally convulsions.

Q. Does Trihexyphenidyl cause weight gain?

Yes, Trihexyphenidyl may cause weight gain. If you are concerned about your weight gain, consult a dietician for diet plan, exercise regularly, and eat a healthy and nutritious diet.

Q. Can I crush Trihexyphenidyl?

No, Trihexyphenidyl should not be crushed. It should be swallowed as a whole with a glass of water. Consult your doctor if you are not sure about how to take this medicine.

Q. Can I take Trihexyphenidyl with food?

Trihexyphenidyl may be taken before or after meals according to the effects experienced by the patient. If Trihexyphenidyl tends to dry the mouth excessively, it may be better to take it before meals, unless it causes nausea. If taken after meals, it may cause induced thirst which can be reduced by peppermint, chewing gum, or water.

Q. For how long do I need to take Trihexyphenidyl?

You should continue taking Trihexyphenidyl as long as your doctor advises you. In some cases, the use of Trihexyphenidyl may continue indefinitely. Such patients are often kept under careful observation for a longer period of time.

Q. What if I stop taking Trihexyphenidyl abruptly?

You should not stop taking Trihexyphenidyl without consulting your doctor as your symptoms may get worse. If you feel your dose needs to be lowered, then consult your doctor who will reduce your dose gradually.