Apo-Trihex: an antiparkinsonian drug from Canada
Apo-Trihex is an antiparkinsonian drug manufactured by Apotex Inc. in Canada. It belongs to the group of anticholinergic drugs that block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for the transmission of impulses in the nervous system. Apo-Trihex contains the active substance trihexyphenidyl, which helps reduce the symptoms of parkinsonism, Little's disease, spastic paralysis and other diseases associated with damage to the extrapyramidal and pyramidal systems.
Apo-Trihex is available in the form of tablets of various dosages - 2 mg and 5 mg. It has several synonyms, such as Parkopan, Parkopan 2, Parkopan 5, Tryphen and Cyclodol. The drug is not recommended for people with angle-closure glaucoma and stage III-IV prostate adenoma.
Like all medicines, Apo-Trihex may cause side effects. These include dry mouth, accommodation paresis, tachycardia, constipation, urinary disorders, purulent mumps, xerostomia, headache, irritability, decreased ability to concentrate, drug dependence and skin rash. The frequency and severity of these effects may vary depending on the dose and duration of use.
Interaction of Apo-Trihex with other medications may also cause unwanted reactions. For example, combined use with histamine receptor blockers, phenothiazine derivatives and tricyclic antidepressants may enhance the anticholinergic effects of the drug. Levodopa, used to treat parkinsonism, may increase the antiparkinsonian activity of Apo-Trihex, which may require dosage adjustment. Reserpine, used to treat high blood pressure, may reduce the effectiveness of Apo-Trihex.
An overdose of Apo-Trihex may cause dysfunction of the central nervous system, such as psychomotor agitation, delusions and hallucinations. In this case, urgent medical attention is required.
Apo-Trihex also has some restrictions on its use. For example, it is not recommended for use in atrial fibrillation, obstructive gastrointestinal diseases, decompensated heart, kidney and liver diseases, as well as during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Overall, Apo-Tryhex is an effective antiparkinsonian drug that can help improve the quality of life of patients with parkinsonism and other diseases associated with dysfunction of the nervous system. However, like any medicine, it should be taken only as prescribed by a doctor and in accordance with the recommended dosage to avoid possible side effects and complications.