Parkinson's Disease

Anticholinergics

Anticholinergics have a limited role in the treatment of PD. They are primarily effective against tremor and rigidity, and their side effects may be especially significant in elderly patients. Doses should begin low and increase slowly. Typical doses for common anticholinergics are:

• Trihexyphenidyl (Artane®): 2-15 mg/day
• Benztropine: 1.0-4.5 mg/day
• Ethopropazine: 10-200 mg/day

Common side effects are memory loss, dry mouth, urinary retention, constipation, sedation, delirium, and hallucinations.