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Artane |
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What is Artane and why is it prescribed? Artane is used, in conjunction with other drugs, for the relief of certain symptoms of Parkinson's disease. It is also used to control certain side effects induced by antipsychotic drugs such as Thorazine and Haldol. Artane works by correcting the chemical imbalance that causes Parkinson's disease. Artane is not a cure for Parkinson's disease but it minimizes and reduces the frequency of symptoms such as tremors. How should you take Artane? Follow your doctors directions for taking Artane. You may take Artane either before meals or after meals, whichever you find more convenient. Your doctor will probably start you on a small amount and increase the dosage gradually. If the medication makes your mouth feel dry, try chewing gum, sucking mints, or simply sipping water. Artane comes in tablet and liquid form. With either, you will probably need to take 3 or 4 doses a day. Once you have reached the dosage that is best for you, your doctor may switch you to sustained-release capsules ("Sequels") which are to be taken only once or twice a day. Do not open or crush the sequels. Always swallow them whole. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is within 2 hours or your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time. Store Artane at room temperature. Do not allow the liquid to freeze. Are there any Artane side effects? Artane side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Common Artane side effects may include blurred vision, dry mouth, nausea, and nervousness. These side effects, which appear in 30% to 50% of all people who take Artane, tend to be mild. They may disappear as your body gets used to the drug; if they persist, your doctor may want to lower your dosage slightly. Other potential Artane side effects include agitation, bowel obstruction, confusion, constipation, delusions, difficulty urinating, dilated pupils, disturbed behavior, drowsiness, hallucinations, headache, pressure in the eye, rapid heartbeat, rash, vomiting, and weakness. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Artane? If Artane is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. If you take Artane along with any of the drugs listed below, your doctor may need to adjust the dosage of Artane, the other medication, or possibly both: Amantadine (Symmetrel), Amitriptyline (Elavil), Chlorpromazine (Thorazine), Doxepin (Sinequan), or Haloperidol (Haldol). Are there any special warnings about Artane? The elderly are highly sensitive to drugs such as Artane and should use it with caution. Artane can reduce the body's ability to perspire, one of the key ways your body prevents overheating. Avoid excess sun or exercise that also cause you to become overheated. If you have any of the following conditions, make sure your doctor knows about them, since Artane could make them worse: Enlarged prostate, Glaucoma, Stomach/intestinal obstructive disease, or Urinary tract obstructive disease. It is important to stick to the prescribed dosage. Your doctor should watch you carefully if you have heart, liver, or kidney disease or high blood pressure, and should check your eyes frequently. You should also be watched for the development of any allergic reactions. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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