Benzatropine

Overview
Benzatropine mesilate (INN, commonly known as benztropine; marketed as Cogentin) is an anticholinergic drug principally used for the treatment of:
 * Drug-induced parkinsonism, akathisia and acute dystonia;
 * Parkinson disease; and
 * Idiopathic or secondary dystonia.

Indications
It is used in patients with schizophrenia to reduce the side effects of antipsychotic treatment, such as parkinsonism and akathisia.

Benztropine is also a second-line drug for the treatment of Parkinson's disease. It improves tremor but not rigidity or bradykinesia.

Benztropine is also sometimes used for the treatment of dystonia, a rare disorder that causes abnormal muscle contraction, resulting in twisting postures of limbs, trunk, or face.

Side effects
These are principally anticholinergic:
 * Dry mouth
 * Blurred vision
 * Cognitive changes
 * Constipation
 * Urinary retention
 * Tachycardia
 * Anorexia
 * Psychosis (usually in overdose)

Some studies suggest that use of anticholinergics increases the risk of tardive dyskinesia, a long-term side effect of antipsychotics.

Other studies have found no association between anticholinergic exposure and risk of developing tardive dyskinesia.