(Legend)

Generic Name

• Trihexyphenidyl
  T½ = 3.7 h
  Pregnancy category C

Trade Name

• Artane
• Artane Sequels
• Apo-Trihex

Dose Range/Adult Daily Dose

• Range: 6–10 mg/d (up to 15 mg/d)
  Start: 1–2 mg/d po; ↑ by 2 mg every 3–5 d
  Sequels (ER): q 12 h after dose is determined w tabs/elixir
  Monitor for decreased signs & symptoms of parkinsonian syndrome: ↓ tremors/rigidity

Use/Common Side Effects (CSE)

• Use: Parkinson’s, drug-induced parkinsonism and EPS
  CSE: Dizziness, nervousness, drowsiness, blurred vision, mydriasis, dry mouth, nausea; may also experience orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, and urinary hesitancy

Geriatric & Dose Considerations

• Caution w elderly: Causes drowsiness/dizziness (↑ risk-adverse reactions); BPH, chronic renal, hepatic, CV, pulmonary disease

Classification

• Antiparkinsonian agent

Assessment Cautions

• Contraindicated: Glaucoma, thyrotoxicosis, tachycardia (due to cardiac insufficiency), acute hemorrhage. Alcohol intolerance (Elixir only). Additive effects with anticholinergic drugs and CNS depressants.