BENZHEZOL-5 5MG TABLET
TRIHEXYPHENIDYL-BENZHEXOL HYDROCHLORIDE
What it does
Trihexyphenidyl, also known as benzhexol, is a medicine used to help control symptoms of Parkinson's disease and other movement disorders.
Commonly used for: Parkinson's disease, drug-induced movement disorders
Read more in plain English ↓Plain-language summary for general understanding - not medical advice. Always follow your pharmacist/doctor.
Ask about this medicine
Answers come only from this medicine's registration record, BNF monograph and interaction data - not medical advice.
Medicine sourcing is available in Kenya only. We don't sell or dispense medicines - licensed pharmacies do.
Sourcing - Kenya onlyRegistration & product details
Source: Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-04-21 17:37:40 · updated 2026-09-22 04:33:03
About this medicine
Trihexyphenidyl, also known as benzhexol, is a medicine used to help control symptoms of Parkinson's disease and other movement disorders.
What it treats
- Parkinson's disease
- drug-induced movement disorders
How it works
It helps to balance certain chemicals in the brain to reduce shaking and improve movement.
Who it's for
This medicine is for adults with Parkinson's disease or those experiencing movement problems due to other medications.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: trihexyphenidylbenzhexol
Trihexyphenidyl, also known as benzhexol, is an anticholinergic medication primarily used to manage symptoms of Parkinson's disease and drug-induced extrapyramidal symptoms. It works by inhibiting acetylcholine in the central nervous system, helping to alleviate rigidity, bradykinesia, and tremors associated with these conditions. Additionally, it may be employed in the treatment of other movement disorders.
Indications
- Parkinson's disease
- Drug-induced extrapyramidal symptoms
- Dystonia
- Acute dystonic reactions
Dosage
Children: Refer to BNF for Children for specific dosing recommendations.
Adults: Refer to BNF for specific dosing recommendations.
Mechanism of action
Trihexyphenidyl exerts its effect by antagonizing the muscarinic acetylcholine receptors in the central nervous system. This action reduces the activity of acetylcholine, which is often elevated in Parkinson's disease due to the loss of dopaminergic neurons. By restoring the balance between acetylcholine and dopamine, trihexyphenidyl helps to alleviate motor symptoms.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effects of trihexyphenidyl include decreased tremors, muscle stiffness, and improved mobility. The drug's anticholinergic properties are responsible for reducing the excitability of neurons that are overstimulated by acetylcholine, thereby facilitating smoother motor control. The therapeutic effects are generally observed within a few hours of administration.
Pharmacokinetics
Trihexyphenidyl is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations typically occurring within 1 to 2 hours after oral administration. It has a relatively long half-life, allowing for once or twice daily dosing. The drug is extensively metabolized in the liver, and its metabolites are primarily excreted in urine. The pharmacokinetics may vary based on individual patient factors such as age and liver function.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to trihexyphenidyl or any component of the formulation
- Narrow-angle glaucoma
- Myasthenia gravis
- Severe ulcerative colitis
- Tachycardia
- Prostatic hypertrophy
Adverse effects
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Urinary retention
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Psychotic reactions
- Tachycardia
Interactions
- Antihistamines may enhance the anticholinergic effects
- Tricyclic antidepressants may increase sedation and anticholinergic effects
- Other anticholinergic agents may increase side effects
- Potent inhibitors of CYP2D6 may affect metabolism
Precautions
- Use with caution in elderly patients due to increased sensitivity to anticholinergic effects
- Caution in patients with a history of cardiovascular disease
- Monitor for signs of urinary retention, especially in men with prostatic hypertrophy
- May exacerbate conditions such as glaucoma or obstructive gastrointestinal disease
Pregnancy
Trihexyphenidyl should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Limited data are available on use during pregnancy.
Breast-feeding
It is not known whether trihexyphenidyl is excreted in human milk. Caution is advised when administering to breastfeeding women.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Tablets
- Oral solution
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.