Procyclidine Oral
Generic Name: PROCYCLIDINE - ORALPronounced: (proe-SYE-kli-deen)
Procyclidine Oral Uses
Procyclidine is used to treat symptoms of Parkinson's disease or involuntary movements due to the side effects of certain psychiatric drugs (antipsychotics such as chlorpromazine/haloperidol). Procyclidine belongs to a class of medication called anticholinergics that work by blocking a certain natural substance (acetylcholine). This helps decrease muscle stiffness, sweating, and the production of saliva, and helps improve walking ability in people with Parkinson's disease.
Anticholinergics can stop severe muscle spasms of the back, neck, and eyes that are sometimes caused by psychiatric drugs. It can also decrease other side effects such as muscle stiffness/rigidity (extrapyramidal signs-EPS). It is not helpful in treating movement problems caused by tardive dyskinesia and may worsen them.
How To Use Procyclidine Oral
Take this medication by mouth, usually 3 to 4 times a day after meals and at bedtime or as directed by your doctor. Your doctor may start you at a low dose and increase your dose slowly to find the best dose for you. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.
If you are using the liquid form of this medication, measure your dose with a special measuring spoon or device. Do not use a household spoon because it may not provide the correct dose.
Take this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.
Take this medication at least 1 hour before antacids containing magnesium, aluminum, or calcium. Allow at least 1-2 hours between doses of procyclidine and certain drugs for diarrhea (adsorbent antidiarrheals such as kaolin, pectin, attapulgite). Take this medication at least 2 hours after ketoconazole. Antacids and some drugs for diarrhea may prevent the full absorption of procyclidine, and this product may prevent the complete absorption of ketoconazole when these products are taken together.
If you are taking this medication for side effects from another medication, your doctor may instruct you to take it on a regular schedule or only as needed. If you are taking this medication for Parkinson's disease, your doctor may change the dose of your other medications (e.g., levodopa). Follow your doctor's instructions closely. Do not stop or change the dose of your medication without your doctor's approval.
