Cogentin (benztropine) is an anticholinergic medication used to therapeutically manage parkinsonism as an adjunct treatment. It also helps control unintended muscular movements (extrapyramidal disorders) that arise as a side effect of antipsychotic treatments with neuroleptic drugs such as phenothiazines. Cogentin is taken by injection. As an anticholinergic, Cogentin lessens the brain chemical acetylcholine in order to decrease tremors. It is also an antihistamine but isn't used therapeutically for that purpose.
Common Side Effects
Common side effects from using Cogentin include eye problems like blurred vision, dilated pupils and light sensitivity. Psychological side effects include confused thought, depression, hallucinations, poor memory processing and general nervousness. Stomach problems may include nausea, loss of appetite and stomach upset. Dry mouth, heat stroke, numbness, muscle stiffening, difficult urination, numbness and lightheadedness are also possibilities, according to Drugs.com.
Allergic Reactions
Severe allergic reactions may need immediate medical attention. They may involve rashes, hives and itching. Other severe possibilities Drugs.com lists include difficulty breathing, chest tightness and facial swelling. An erratic heartbeat, extreme dizziness or disorientation, mood swings and vomiting also are causes to seek medical attention.
Other Side Effects
Other side effects from taking Cogentin include possible heat stroke and feverishness. Numbness of the extremities, difficulty sweating and dry, overly warm skin temperatures may develop. The National Institutes of Health say these side effects should be addressed before the patient goes into heat stroke and possible coma.
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