Tanesha Thurman
BENZTROPINE MESYLATE
Classification: Anticholinergic
Use: To treat Parkinson’s Disease, extrapyramidal symptoms from antipsychotic drugs
Route: PO
Action: Blocks the effects of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine at cholinergic receptors in the brain as
well as in the rest of the body.
Contraindications: Use with caution in older adults
S/S to monitor: Tachycardia, confusion, urinary retention, toxic psychosis
Pt Teaching: Drink plenty of water, at least 3000 ml/day, continue to eat high-protein foods, take drug
dose ½ hr before eating a protein containing meal, or 1 hr after the meal
CARBIDOPA-LEVODOPA
Classification: Dopamine precursor
Use: Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease, post encephalitic Parkinsonism, symptomatic Parkinsonism
following CNS injury by carbon-monoxide poisoning, manganese intoxication
Route: PO
Action: Levodopa is converted to dopamine in basal ganglia, increasing dopamine concentration in the
brain, inhibiting hyperactive cholinergic activity. Carbidopa prevents peripheral breakdown of levodopa,
making more levodopa available for transport into the brain
Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to carbidopa levodopa. Current use with MAOI’s or use within 14
days. Narrow-angle glaucoma.
S/S to monitor: High incidence of involuntary choreiform, dystonic, dyskinetic movements in those on
long-term therapy. Nausea, vomiting, urinary retention, constipation.
Pt Teaching: Be alert to neurologic effects (headache, lethargy, mental confusion, agitation). Sugarless
gum, sips of water may relieve dry mouth. Report any uncontrolled movement of face, eyelids, mouth,
tongue, arms, hands, legs, mental changes.
ROPINROLE
Classification: Dopamine agonist
Use: Treatment of signs/symptoms of idiopathic Parkinson’s disease
Route: PO
Action: Stimulates postsynaptic dopamine receptors in caudate and putamen in the brain
Contraindications: Hypersensitivity to ropinirole. History of orthostatic hypotension, cardiovascular or
cerebrovascular disease, syncope, hallucinations (especially in elderly).
S/S to monitor: Dyskinesia, impulsive/compulsive behavior, nausea, dizziness, extreme drowsiness.
Pt Teaching: Drowsiness, dizziness may be an initial response to drug. Go slow when changing positions
from lying to standing, avoid tasks that require alertness, and motor skills until response to drug is
established