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Kemadrin
Kemadrin is a prescription drug licensed for the treatment of Parkinson's disease, extrapyramidal symptoms caused by antipsychotic medications, and drooling caused by either Parkinson's disease or antipsychotic medications. This medication is available in tablet form and is typically taken three or four times a day. Potential side effects include constipation, nausea, and confusion.
Kemadrin® (procyclidine hydrochloride) is a prescription medication approved for treating the following conditions:
- Parkinson's disease and other similar conditions
- Extrapyramidal symptoms (movement or muscle tension disorders) caused by antipsychotic medications
- Drooling, caused by either Parkinson's disease or antipsychotic medications.
(Click Kemadrin Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
Kemadrin tablets are made by Monarch Pharmaceuticals.
How Does Kemadrin Work?
Kemadrin is an anticholinergic medication. It works by blocking the effects of acetylcholine, a type of neurotransmitter (a chemical in the nervous system).
Normal muscle movement control requires a careful balance of acetylcholine and dopamine (another neurotransmitter). In Parkinson's disease (and with extrapyramidal disorders caused by antipsychotic medications), dopamine levels are decreased, creating an imbalance between dopamine and acetylcholine. By blocking the effects of acetylcholine, Kemadrin helps to re-establish a normal balance between dopamine and acetylcholine.
Some general considerations to keep in mind when taking Kemadrin include the following:
- The medication comes in tablet form. It is taken by mouth, usually three times a day (after meals) or four times a day (after meals and at bedtime).
- Make sure to take Kemadrin at the same times each day to maintain an even level of the medication in your blood.
- Kemadrin tablets are scored and may be split in half if necessary.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD