Benztropine

Question 1

Benztropine - Drug Class and Presentation

Answer 1

Anticholinergic, 2mg/2mL

Question 2

Benztropine - Pharmacology

Answer 2

Benztropine is synthesised from components of the atropine and diphenhydramine drug molecules. It possesses strong anticholinergic and antihistamine properties whist 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

Question 3

Benztropine - Metabolism

Answer 3

Hepatic

Question 4

Benztropine - Indications

Answer 4

Acute dystonic reaction

Question 5

Benztropine - Contraindications

Answer 5

• KSAR or hypersensitivity to Benztropine
• Tardive dyskinesia
• Children

Question 6

Benztropine - Precautions

Answer 6

• Sedative effects of other drugs may be enhanced

- Children

Question 7

Benztropine - Side Effects

Answer 7

• Dilated pupils
• Dry mouth
• Nausea AND/OR vomiting
• Tachycardia
• Toxic psychosis including confusion and visual hallucinations
• Urinary retention AND/OR dysuria

Question 8

Benztropine - Onset, Duration, Half-life

Answer 8

Onset - 1-2 min
Duration - 1-2 hrs
Half-life - approx 16 hrs

Question 9

Benztropine - Routes of Administration

Answer 9

• IM

- IV

Question 10

Benztropine - Adult Doses

Answer 10

1-2mg, single dose only

Question 11

Benztropine - Paed Doses

Answer 11

> 3yrs, 20mcg/kg, single dose only