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biperiden

Generic name: biperiden [ bye-PEAR-i-den ]
Brand name: Akineton HCl
Drug class: Anticholinergic antiparkinson agents

What is biperiden?

Biperiden reduces the effects of certain naturally occurring chemicals in your body that may become unbalanced as a result of disease (such as Parkinson's disease), drug therapy, or other causes.

Biperiden is used to treat the stiffness, tremors, spasms, and poor muscle control of Parkinson's disease. It is also used to treat and prevent these same muscular conditions when they are caused by drugs such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine), fluphenazine (Prolixin), perphenazine (Trilafon), and others.

Biperiden may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about biperiden?

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Biperiden may cause dizziness or blurred vision. If you experience dizziness or blurred vision, avoid these activities.

Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking biperiden.

Avoid becoming overheated. Biperiden may cause decreased sweating. This could lead to heat stroke in hot weather or with vigorous exercise.

Who should not take biperiden?

You cannot take biperiden if you

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have

You may need a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Biperiden is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether it will harm an unborn baby. Do not take biperiden without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.

It is also not known whether biperiden passes into breast milk. Do not take biperiden without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take biperiden?

Take biperiden exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse or doctor to explain them to you.

Take each dose with a full glass of water.

Take biperiden after a meal if it upsets your stomach.

Biperiden may be taken once or several times a day. The maximum amount of biperiden that should be taken in any one day is eight tablets (16 mg). Follow your doctor's instructions.

Store biperiden at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and only take your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of a biperiden overdose include large pupils; warm, dry skin; flushed face; fever; dry mouth; fast or irregular heartbeat; anxiety; hallucinations; confusion; agitation; hyperactivity; loss of consciousness; and seizures.

What should I avoid while taking biperiden?

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Biperiden may cause dizziness or blurred vision. If you experience dizziness or blurred vision, avoid these activities.

Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking biperiden.

Avoid becoming overheated. Biperiden may cause decreased sweating. This could lead to heat stroke in hot weather or with vigorous exercise. Try to keep as cool as possible and watch for signs of heat stroke such as decreased sweating, nausea, and dizziness.

Biperiden side effects

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking biperiden and seek emergency medical attention:

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take biperiden and talk to your doctor if you experience

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Biperiden dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Parkinson's Disease:

2 mg orally 3 to 4 times a day; the dose may be titrated up to a maximum of 16 mg per 24 hours

Usual Adult Dose for Extrapyramidal Reaction:

Neuroleptic-induced: 2 mg orally 1 to 3 times a day

What other drugs will affect biperiden?

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you are taking:

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with biperiden. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.