Parenteral Manual

Benztropine mesylate

Disclaimer: Official controlled document is the CHEO online copy. It is the responsibility of user to ensure that any paper copy version is the same as the online version before use.

Alternate Name(s): 
COGENTIN®
Classification: 
Anticholinergic- Anti-Parkinson's Agent
Original Date: 
August 2005
Revised Date: 
September 2013
Indications: 
  • Symptomatic relief of drug induced extrapyramidal side effects and acute dystonic reactions
Reconstitution and Stability: 
  • Available as a 1 mg/mL injection
  • Stable at room temperature, protect from light
Compatibility: 

- Solutions Compatible:  no information

- Additives/Above Cassette Compatible: perphenazine

- Y-site Compatible: fluconazole

- Incompatible: no information

Administration: 

(For approved routes of administration by nursing personnel, refer to Policy for the Administration of Intravenous Medications.)

SC NO
IM YES
IV Push

YES, rarely used- onset of effect is similar to IM
IV Intermittent Infusion NO
IV Continuous Infusion NO
Dosage: 

(For neonatal dosages, refer to Neonatal IV Drug Manual.)

Drug Induced Extrapyramidal Disorders:

  • Pediatrics(> 3 years): 0.02 - 0.05 mg/kg/dose 1-2 times daily
  • Use in children <3 years should be reserved for life-threatening emergencies
  • Adults: 1-4 mg/dose 1-2 times daily

Acute Dystonic Reactions:

  • Adults:  2 mg IM or IV then 1 - 2 mg BID for 2 - 3 days
Potential hazards of parenteral administration: 
  • Mental confusion, excitement
  • Weakness
  • CNS drowsiness, nervousness
  • Weakness, nausea
Notes: 
  • This medication is highly anticholinergic and when used in combination with major tranquilizers will produce additive anticholinergic effects:
    - dry mouth
    - blurred vision
    - urinary retention                               
    - constipation
  • Rarely produces anticholinergic psychosis

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