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Artane

Generic name: trihexyphenidyltry-hex-ee-FEH-nih-dill ]
Brand names: Artane, Trihexane
Drug class: Anticholinergic antiparkinson agents

What is Artane?

Artane alters unusual nerve impulses and relaxes stiff muscles.

Artane is used to treat the stiffness, tremors, spasms, and poor muscle control of Parkinson's disease. It is also used to treat and prevent the same muscular conditions when they are caused by drugs such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine), fluphenazine (Prolixin), perphenazine (Trilafon), haloperidol (Haldol), thiothixene (Navane), and others.

Artane may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Important Information

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Artane may cause dizziness or blurred vision. If you experience dizziness or blurred vision, avoid these activities.

Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking Artane.

Avoid becoming overheated. Artane may cause decreased sweating. This could lead to heat stroke in hot weather or with vigorous exercise.

Before taking this medicine

Do not use Artane without first talking to your doctor if you have

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have

You may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

It is not known whether Artane will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether trihexyphenidyl passes into breast milk. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Artane?

Take Artane exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Take each dose with a full glass of water.

Artane may be taken with or without meals. Taking this medicine with food may lessen stomach upset.

To ensure that you get a correct dose, measure the liquid form of trihexyphenidyl with a special dose-measuring spoon or cup, not with a regular table spoon. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist where you can get one.

Store Artane at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and only take the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of a Artane overdose include large pupils; warm, dry skin; flushed face; fever; dry mouth; fast or irregular heartbeat; anxiety; hallucinations; confusion; agitation; hyperactivity; loss of consciousness; and seizures.

What should I avoid while taking trihexyphenidyl?

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Artane may cause dizziness or blurred vision. If you experience dizziness or blurred vision, avoid these activities.

Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking Artane.

Avoid becoming overheated. Artane may cause decreased sweating. This could lead to heat stroke in hot weather or with vigorous exercise. Try to keep as cool as possible and watch for signs of heat stroke such as decreased sweating, nausea, and dizziness.

Artane side effects

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Artane and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Artane and talk to your doctor if you experience

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What other drugs will affect Artane?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:

You may not be able to take Artane or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Artane. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.