Artane

What is it?

Composition

Artane is available in tablet form containing the active substance trihexyphenidyl hydrochloride. Depending on the dosage, each tablet may contain 2 mg or 5 mg of this component. In addition, the tablets contain excipients such as:

• Calcium phosphate
• Corn starch
• Magnesium stearate

These additional ingredients ensure the stability and form of the drug, promoting its effective absorption by the body. It is important to note that the exact composition may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and country of manufacture, so it is recommended to read the information provided in the official instructions for the drug.

How to use?

The drug Artane must be used strictly according to the doctors instructions, taking into account the characteristics of your condition and the bodys reaction. The main recommendations for use are as follows:

1. The drug is taken orally, usually during or after meals, to minimize possible side effects from the gastrointestinal tract.
2. The initial dose is usually 1 mg, and it is gradually increased so that the body adapts to the drug. The optimal dosage is determined by the doctor individually.
3. The tablets should be washed down with a small amount of water, without chewing, to ensure the correct release of the active component.

When treating, it is important to adhere to the recommended schedule and not change the dosage on your own. If you miss a pill, you should consult a doctor, especially if a significant amount of time has passed.

How does it work?

Artane works due to the active component trihexyphenidyl, which is an anticholinergic substance. Its mechanism is based on blocking the action of acetylcholine, a chemical substance involved in the transmission of nerve impulses.

Reducing the influence of acetylcholine helps restore the balance between various neurotransmitters, which is disrupted in Parkinsons disease and other movement disorders. This leads to a decrease in tremor, muscle spasticity and rigidity, improving coordination and quality of movement.

The drug is also effective in the treatment of drug-induced dyskinesia caused by the use of antipsychotics. Reducing motor hyperactivity helps patients feel more comfortable in everyday life.

Indications

Indications for the use of Artane are related to the treatment of neurological and drug-induced movement disorders. This drug is prescribed in the following cases:

• Parkinsons disease, including idiopathic, postencephalitic and atherosclerotic forms of the disease.
• Extrapyramidal disorders such as dystonia, akathisia and tremor caused by taking antipsychotics or other medications.
• Symptomatic therapy of movement disorders accompanying chronic neurological conditions.

The effectiveness of the drug is especially noticeable in eliminating muscle rigidity, spasms and tremors, which significantly facilitates the patients daily activities. However, the appointment and duration of the course of therapy is determined by the doctor, based on the patients condition and response to treatment.

Contraindications

Contraindications to the use of Artane are due to its anticholinergic effect, which can aggravate certain conditions or cause adverse reactions. Use of the drug is not recommended in the following cases:

• Glaucoma (especially closed-angle), since the drug can increase intraocular pressure.
• Prostatic hypertrophy with urinary retention.
• Obstructive diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, such as stenosis or obstruction.
• Severe renal or hepatic insufficiency.
• Hypersensitivity to trihexyphenidyl or any of the components of the drug.

Artane should be used with caution in diseases of the cardiovascular system, as well as in elderly patients, since they are more susceptible to the risk of side effects. Be sure to consult a doctor if you have chronic diseases or are taking other medications.

Side effects

Side effects of Artane may vary depending on the dosage, duration of administration and individual response of the body. The most common of them are related to the anticholinergic effect of the drug:

• Dry mouth, which can cause discomfort with prolonged use.
• Blurred vision, especially in patients with a predisposition to glaucoma.
• Constipation and gastrointestinal disorders.
• Dizziness, especially at the beginning of treatment or when increasing the dose.
• Difficulty urinating, especially in patients with diseases of the genitourinary system.

Less common symptoms include nervousness, drowsiness, memory problems or concentration problems. In case of severe side effects, especially serious ones, such as allergic reactions or impaired coordination, you should immediately consult a doctor to adjust the dosage or change the drug.