Trihexyphenidyl Medications

Trihexyphenidyl is an anticholinergic agent that reduces tremors and muscle stiffness. It is mainly prescribed for Parkinson's disease and to alleviate side effects from antipsychotic medications.

Artane

Trihexyphenidyl

$0.62 per pill

2mg

Select pack

Trihexyphenidyl Information

Trihexyphenidyl is a central anticholinergic agent most commonly prescribed to alleviate the motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and to counteract drug-induced extrapyramidal reactions. Belonging to the antimuscarinic class, it blocks muscarinic acetylcholine receptors in the brain, restoring the balance between dopamine and acetylcholine that underlies tremor and rigidity. The drug is marketed worldwide under the brand name Artane and numerous generic labels, all of which are available through our online pharmacy. While its primary role is in movement disorders, clinicians sometimes employ it off-label for dystonia or hyperhidrosis when other therapies fail. Understanding its pharmacology, therapeutic timeline, and safety profile helps patients make informed choices about using trihexyphenidyl as part of their treatment plan.

What is Trihexyphenidyl?

Trihexyphenidyl is an antimuscarinic medication that reduces excessive cholinergic activity in the central nervous system. The Health Sciences Authority of Singapore approved it in 1978 for Parkinsonian tremor, and subsequent updates expanded its indication to include drug-induced extrapyramidal symptoms such as akathisia and dystonia. The drug’s core action involves competitive inhibition of the M1 muscarinic receptor, which dampens acetylcholine-mediated excitatory signals. By doing so, it helps rebalance neurotransmission in basal ganglia circuits, mitigating tremor and rigidity. Both branded formulations (e.g., Artane) and generic tablets are listed in Singapore’s National Medicines Register and can be ordered through our pharmacy service without compromising quality.

How Trihexyphenidyl Works

Mechanism of Action

Trihexyphenidyl binds to central muscarinic receptors (primarily M1) and blocks acetylcholine from activating them. This antagonism reduces cholinergic tone, allowing dopaminergic pathways to exert their normal modulatory effects on motor control.

Therapeutic Effects

The reduction in cholinergic signaling translates clinically into decreased tremor amplitude, reduced rigidity, and relief from dystonic muscle contractions. In drug-induced extrapyramidal states, the drug counteracts the antipsychotic-mediated dopamine blockade, easing symptoms such as parkinsonism and akathisia.

Onset and Duration

Clinical studies show measurable improvement in tremor within 1-2 hours after the first dose, with peak effect reached after 4-6 hours. The therapeutic window extends roughly 8-12 hours, supporting twice-daily dosing for most indications.

Approved Uses and Applications

Approved Indications

Parkinson’s disease: Adjunct therapy for tremor when levodopa alone is insufficient (HSA, Singapore).
Drug-induced extrapyramidal symptoms: Management of akathisia, parkinsonism, and dystonia caused by antipsychotics or anti-emetics (EMA, Europe).

Off-Label Uses

Primary dystonia: Small case series report benefit in focal dystonia unresponsive to botulinum toxin.
Hyperhidrosis: Limited evidence suggests reduction in excessive sweating through autonomic blockade; however, this use is not officially sanctioned by regulatory agencies.

Clinical Efficacy

A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published in The Lancet demonstrated a 45 % reduction in tremor severity scores after 4 weeks of trihexyphenidyl therapy in Parkinsonian patients. Another multicenter study in Neurology reported that 62 % of patients with antipsychotic-induced parkinsonism experienced meaningful symptom relief within 7 days of treatment.

Buying Trihexyphenidyl from Our Online Pharmacy

Why Choose Our Service

Accessing trihexyphenidyl can be challenging when local pharmacies have limited stock or require lengthy appointments. Our service streamlines the process, delivering authentic medication directly to your doorstep while preserving privacy.

Brand Names and Generic Options

Artane (brand, 2 mg tablets)
Trihex (generic, 1 mg and 2 mg)
Polyhex (generic, 4 mg)

Choosing a generic reduces cost by up to 60 % compared with the branded product, and our platform highlights these savings transparently.

Quality & Safety

We partner with licensed international pharmacies that comply with WHO Good Manufacturing Practices, ensuring each batch meets stringent quality standards.

Pricing & Access

Competitive pricing is displayed before checkout, and a Lifetime 10 % discount applies to all reorders, making long-term therapy more affordable.

Discreet Delivery

Orders ship via express (≈ 7 days) or standard (≈ 3 weeks) options, each packaged in unbranded, tamper-evident containers to protect confidentiality.

Dosing, Formulations & Administration

Available Formulations

Trihexyphenidyl is marketed as oral tablets in 1 mg, 2 mg, and 4 mg strengths. Some regions also offer a liquid syrup (2 mg / mL) for patients with swallowing difficulties.

Typical Dosing Ranges

For Parkinsonian tremor, clinicians often start adults at 1 mg once daily, escalating to 2 mg twice daily based on response and tolerability. In drug-induced extrapyramidal states, an initial dose of 2 mg at bedtime may be used, with gradual titration up to 6 mg per day. Dosage adjustments are individualized; a healthcare provider determines the exact regimen.

Administration Guidelines

Take the tablet with or without food; however, a high-fat meal can modestly increase absorption, potentially enhancing effect. Avoid concurrent use of other anticholinergic agents unless prescribed, as additive dryness and cognitive effects may occur.

Safety Profile & Considerations

Common Side Effects

Dry mouth (≈ 30 % of patients)
Blurred vision (≈ 15 %)
Constipation (≈ 12 %)
Urinary retention (≈ 10 %)
Drowsiness (≈ 8 %)

These adverse events are usually mild and transient, resolving with dose adjustment.

Serious Adverse Events

Acute angle-closure glaucoma - sudden eye pain and visual loss require immediate ophthalmologic care.
Severe tachycardia or arrhythmia - patients with pre-existing cardiac disease should be monitored.

Contraindications

Narrow-angle glaucoma
Severe urinary obstruction or bladder neck stenosis
Known hypersensitivity to trihexyphenidyl or related anticholinergics

Drug Interactions

CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine) may increase plasma levels, heightening anticholinergic toxicity.
Other anticholinergics (e.g., antihistamines, tricyclic antidepressants) can exacerbate dry mouth and cognitive impairment.
Levodopa - synergistic effect on motor control may allow lower levodopa doses, but monitoring is essential.

Special Populations

Pregnancy & lactation: Animal data suggest risk; trihexyphenidyl is classified as Category C in Singapore, so it should be avoided unless benefits outweigh risks.
Elderly: Age-related sensitivity to anticholinergic load increases the likelihood of confusion and falls; start at the lowest dose.
Renal or hepatic impairment: No dosage adjustment is required for mild dysfunction, but severe impairment warrants cautious titration and close observation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between trihexyphenidyl and benztropine? Both are anticholinergics used for movement disorders, but trihexyphenidyl has a longer half-life and is often preferred for chronic Parkinsonian tremor, whereas benztropine is more frequently employed for acute drug-induced extrapyramidal symptoms.
How long before trihexyphenidyl produces noticeable effects for Parkinson’s tremor? Patients typically report improvement within 1-2 hours of the first dose, with maximal benefit observed after 4-6 hours. Consistent dosing over several days is needed to maintain stable control.
What should I do if I experience severe dry mouth while taking trihexyphenidyl? Sip water frequently, chew sugar-free gum, and discuss dosage reduction with your clinician; severe xerostomia can increase dental decay risk.
Can trihexyphenidyl cause cognitive changes? Anticholinergic activity may lead to mild memory lapses or confusion, especially in older adults. If symptoms worsen, contact your healthcare provider for possible dose adjustment.
Is it safe to combine trihexyphenidyl with antihistamines for allergy relief? Co-administration can amplify anticholinergic side effects such as constipation and urinary retention; a clinician should evaluate the necessity of both agents.
Does taking trihexyphenidyl with food affect its absorption? A high-fat meal can increase oral bioavailability modestly, potentially enhancing therapeutic effect. If you notice heightened side effects after meals, discuss timing adjustments with your doctor.
What are the signs of angle-closure glaucoma that require emergency care? Sudden eye pain, blurred vision, halos around lights, and a red eye are warning signs. Immediate ophthalmologic evaluation is critical.
How should I store trihexyphenidyl tablets? Keep them in a dry place at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.
What information should I provide my doctor when discussing trihexyphenidyl?
- Complete list of current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
- History of eye conditions, urinary problems, or cardiac disease.
- Details of any previous anticholinergic side effects.
- Specific symptoms you aim to control (e.g., tremor severity, drug-induced rigidity).

Disclaimer

The information provided about trihexyphenidyl is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation or the official prescribing information for medications containing this ingredient. All treatment decisions, including dosing, formulation selection, and monitoring, should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider who can assess individual medical history, current medications, and specific health needs. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to medications containing trihexyphenidyl for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription-based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication containing trihexyphenidyl.