What is this medication for?
This medication is used to treat Parkinson's disease along with other
medications. It may also be used to reduce the shakiness and restlessness
that can be caused by some tranquilizers or antipsychotic medications. It acts
on the nervous system and corrects the chemical imbalances that occur with Parkinson's
disease. When used to treat Parkinson's disease, the full effect of biperiden
does not usually appear until after the first three or four days of treatment.
When used to reduce the shakiness and restlessness caused by tranquilizers,
the effect appears within a few hours to a few days.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those
listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all
of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor
or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do
not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms
as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their
doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without
consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Akineton® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended beginning adult dose for treatment of Parkinson's disease is
2 mg three to four times daily. It is then gradually increased to
a maximum of 16 mg daily as needed to control symptoms, taken in
three or four divided doses with or after food. For control of symptoms caused
by other medications, the usual dose is 2 mg taken one to three times daily.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as
body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor
has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change
the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is very important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by
your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue on
with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the
missed dose and continue on with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take
a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Biperiden should not be taken by anyone who:
- is allergic to biperiden or any ingredients of the medication
- has narrow-angle (closed-angle) glaucoma
- has stomach or bowel blockage or obstruction
- has an enlarged colon caused by constipation or other causes (megacolon)
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