Drugs - Parkinsons - Anticholinergic and AntiViral Flashcards
Which are the anticholinergic drugs used to treat Parkinson’s?
Benztropine (Cogentin)
Trihexyphenidyl (Artane)
What is the method of action of the anticholinergic drugs used for Parkinson’s?
They correct the dopamine – acetylcholine imbalance
Which were the first anti-Parkinson’s drugs, which were only effective against tremors?
Anticholinergics
What should you use if you cannot tolerate anticholinergics?
Benadryl
What are the side effects of anticholinergic drugs?
Cyclopegia, constipation, dry mouth, tachycardia, urinary retention, memory loss and confusion
What do anticholinergics counteract in Parkinson’s?
Sialorrhea (drooling)
How should you adjust the dose of anticholinergics in the elderly?
Give them half the dose of any anticholinergic
Which are the antiviral drugs used for Parkinson’s?
Amantadine (Symmetrel)
What is the method of action of amantadine?
It is a releaser of dopamine only in the striatal system of the brain and it has mild anticholinergic activity. It also blocks NMDA receptors which may be responsible for its anti-dyskinetic effect. It has effects on rigidity and akinesia.
How is amantadine metabolized?
It is not metabolized, it is excreted through the kidneys. Don’t give it to patients with renal failure because they can develop encelphalopathy, confusion, and lethargy
What is a side effect of amantadine?
Livedo reticularis (purple mottling of skin)
How long do the effects of amantadine normally last?
6-9 months
