Trihexyphenidyl

Dosage Forms Available

• Trihexyphenidyl can be taken orally (tablet or as an oral solution).

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is primarily intended for adults.

Contraindications

• Trihexyphenidyl is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to this medicine. It is also contraindicated in patients with narrow-angle glaucoma, gastrointestinal or genitourinary obstructions, myasthenia gravis, and megacolon.

Other Medications to Avoid

• This medicine can interact with other anticholinergic medicines (such as atropine and oxybutynin), antidepressants like tricyclic antidepressants (such as imipramine and amitriptyline), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (like selegiline and phenelzine), antihistamines (like diphenhydramine and cetirizine), antipsychotics (like haloperidol and risperidone), and opioid analgesics (such as codeine and morphine).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• Overdosing on Trihexyphenidyl may lead to symptoms such as flushed skin, dilated pupils, rapid heart rate, agitation, and delirium. In severe cases, cardiovascular collapse, coma, and even death may occur. If you suspect an overdose, immediately consult your doctor.

• If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. However, do not double your next dose to make up for the missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects from Trihexyphenidyl are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when the medicine is discontinued. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• To manage dry mouth, you can suck on sugar-free hard candy or ice chips.

• Taking medicine with meals may help reduce an upset stomach.

• To avoid dizziness upon standing up, rise slowly from sitting or lying positions.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Trihexyphenidyl can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Therefore, it may affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. Avoid such tasks if you experience these side effects.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• The use of Trihexyphenidyl during pregnancy should only be considered if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. Consult your doctor before using this medicine during breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with cardiovascular disease should exercise caution when taking Trihexyphenidyl as it may worsen the condition.

• This medicine should also be used carefully in patients with obstructive uropathy or gastrointestinal obstruction.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Drinking plenty of fluids is recommended as Trihexyphenidyl can decrease sweating, increasing the risk of heatstroke.

• Regular eye exams are advised to monitor for glaucoma.