Benztropine Flashcards
Drug Class of Benztropine
Antichloinergic
Presentation of Benztropine
• Ampoule, 2 mg/2 mL benztropine
Schedule of Benztropine
• S4 (Restricted drugs).
Pharmacology of Benztropine
Benztropine is synthesised from components of the atropine and diphenhydramine drug molecules. It possesses strong anticholinergic and antihistamine properties whilst also inhibiting dopamine re-uptake. These properties enable the drug to restore some balance between acetylcholine and dopamine in the central nervous system, thereby alleviating acute dystonias.
Metabolism of Benztropine
Hepatic.
Indications of Benztropine
• Acute dystonic reaction
Contraindications of Benztropine
- KSAR or hypersensitivity to benztropine
- Tardive Dyskinesia
- Children < 3 years
Precautions of Benztropine
- Sedative effects of other drugs may be enhanced
* Children < 12 years
Side Effects of Benztropine
- Dilated pupils
- Dry mouth
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Tachycardia
- Toxic psychosis including confusion and visual hallucinations
- Urinary retention and/or dysuria
Routes of Administration for Benztropine
Intramuscular injection (IM) Intravenous injection (IV)
Onset Time for Benztropine IV
1–2 minutes
Duration Time for Benztropine IV
1–2 hours
Half Life of Benztropine
≈ 16 hours
Special Notes of Benztropine
• Because of its atropine-like side effects, benztropine is
contraindicated in children < 3 years and should be used
with caution in older children.
• There is no significant difference in the onset of effect following IM or IV injection.
Adult Dose of Benztropine IM
Acute dystonic reaction
1 – 2 mg
Single dose only.
