Procyclidine
Uses of Procyclidine
Procyclidine is primarily used to manage Parkinson's disease and drug-induced movement disorders. It belongs to a group of medicines known as anti-spasmodic agents.
As an adjunct treatment, it helps improve muscle control and reduces stiffness in Parkinson's disease.
Side effects of Procyclidine
Dry mouth
Blurred vision
Dizziness
Constipation
Nausea
How Procyclidine works
Procyclidine is an anti-spasmodic agent (a muscle relaxing medication).
It operates by decreasing the effect of a chemical called acetylcholine in the brain. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that helps control muscle activity. By blocking the receptors of acetylcholine, this medicine helps to relax muscles and control nerve signals responsible for muscle function. This action improves muscle control and reduces stiffness, leading to smoother movement in patients with Parkinson's disease or drug-induced movement disorders.
Certified content
Written By
BDS, MDS
Reviewed By
Bachelor of Dental Surgery
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
Procyclidine is available for use via oral route in the form of tablets and syrup.
Age and Dose Restrictions
This medicine is meant for adults. Procyclidine is not recommended for use in children as safety and effectiveness have not been established.
Contraindications
Procyclidine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to it or any of its components. It is also contraindicated in patients with angle-closure glaucoma (enlarged iris blocks fluid from draining properly in your eye), myasthenia gravis (chronic autoimmune disorder), gastrointestinal obstruction (partial or complete blockage of the intestines) and severe ulcerative colitis (inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation and ulcers in the colon and rectum).
Other Medications to Avoid
Procyclidine may interact with other anticholinergic drugs (e.g., atropine, benztropine), antipsychotics (e.g., olanzapine, risperidone), tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, doxepin), anti-convulsants (e.g., clonazepam, lamotrigine) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (e.g., selegiline, phenelzine).
Overdose and Missed Dose
An overdose of Procyclidine may cause severe symptoms like flushing, dry skin or hallucinations. If you observe these symptoms, contact emergency medical services immediately.
If you forget to take your dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.
Management of Side Effects
Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Try frequent mouth rinses, good oral hygiene, and drinking lots of water for dry mouth.
For constipation, increase fibre intake in your diet and stay hydrated.
For dizziness or drowsiness, try to sit or lie down until the feeling passes. To reduce this effect, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.
Use in Driving and Operating Machinery
Procyclidine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. It may affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid these activities until you are sure how the medication affects you.
Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
Procyclidine falls under pregnancy category C. It should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit justifies the risk to the foetus. It is not known if this medicine is excreted in human milk. Caution should be exercised when administering it to nursing women.
Caution in Other Conditions
Patients with cardiovascular disease, liver or kidney impairment, or a history of seizures should use Procyclidine cautiously and under close medical monitoring.
Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations
Take each dose with a full glass of water after meals to lessen stomach upset.
Frequently asked questions
Can Procyclidine cause mood changes?
There is no specific mention of Procyclidine causing mood changes in the research data provided. However, like all medicines, individual responses to this medicine can vary. If you notice any significant change in your mood or behaviour after starting this medicine, please inform your doctor immediately.
Are there any natural alternatives to Procyclidine?
There are no specific natural alternatives that can replace Procyclidine for its intended uses in managing symptoms of Parkinson's disease and drug-induced movement disorders. Do consult with your doctor before trying any alternative therapies.
Is there a risk of becoming dependent on Procyclidine?
Procyclidine does not typically lead to dependency when used as prescribed. However, stopping the medicine suddenly after prolonged use can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Hence, it is advisable always to follow your doctor's instructions on gradually decreasing the dose.
Can Procyclidine affect menstruation?
The research data does not indicate that Procyclidine impacts menstrual cycles. However, if you observe any irregularities in your menstrual cycle after starting this medicine, please notify your doctor.
Does Procyclidine have any effect on appetite?
Procyclidine does not typically affect appetite. However, everyone's body responds differently to medication so if you notice a significant change in your appetite, it's important to let your doctor know.
Does taking Procyclidine affect hormone levels in any way?
There's no evidence to suggest that Procyclidine impacts hormone levels. But, as with any medicine, individual responses may vary.
How long does one have to take Procyclidine for it to be effective?
Procyclidine is usually taken over a long period of time to manage symptoms of Parkinson's disease and drug-induced movement disorders. The duration of treatment is determined by your doctor based on your specific condition and response to therapy.
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