Cogentin®
(benztropine mesylate injection)

• Cogentin belongs to a group of medicines called anticholinergics that block the effects of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter.
• Cogentin is available in 2 mL ampules with 1 mg benztropine mesylate per mL.

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Indications
For use as an adjunct in the therapy of all forms of parkinsonism.

Useful also in the control of extrapyramidal disorders (except tardive dyskinesia) due to neuroleptic drugs (e.g. phenothiazines).

Important Safety Information
COGENTIN® (benztropine mesylate injection) is contraindicated in anyone with a hypersensitivity to any component of Cogentin.  Because of its atropine-like side effects, COGENTIN is also contraindicated in pediatric patients under three years of age, and should be used with caution in older pediatric patients.  Use of COGENTIN during pregnancy has not been established.  COGENTIN may impair mental and/or physical abilities to perform hazardous tasks.  When COGENTIN is given with phenothiazines, haloperidol or other drugs with anticholinergic or antidopaminergic activity, report gastrointestinal complaints, fever or heat intolerance promptly as they may intensify and have sometimes been fatal.  COGENTIN may produce anhidrosis and should be administered with caution.  The possibility of hyperthermia should be considered.  Patients with tachycardia and prostatic hypertrophy should be observed closely during treatment with COGENTIN.  Dysuria and urinary retention may occur.  COGENTIN may cause weakness and inability to move muscle groups.  In this event, adjust dosage.  Mental confusion, excitement and visual hallucinations have been reported.  COGENTIN can cause a toxic psychosis and may aggravate symptoms of tardive dyskinesia.  Possible glaucoma may occur.

The following adverse reactions have been reported, in order of decreasing severity:  tachycardia, paralytic illeus, constipation, vomiting, nausea, dry mouth, toxic psychosis, exacerabation of preexisting psychotic symptoms, nervousness, depression, listlessness, finger numbness, blurred vision, dilated pupils, urinary retention, dysuria, occasional allergic reaction, heat stroke, hyperthermia and fever.

For more information, please see Full Prescribing Information.

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