Common Use

Artrane is prescribed to manage symptoms of Parkinson's disease. It can be used alone or alongside other medications. It helps control rigidity, drooling, tremors, and other symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease. Additionally, Artrane may be prescribed to prevent similar symptoms caused by medications such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine), fluphenazine (Prolixin), and perphenazine (Trilafon).

Dosage and Directions

Artrane should be taken only by the individual for whom it has been prescribed. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully, do not take more or less than the prescribed amount or frequency. The dosage of Artrane depends on your specific condition and must be taken exactly as directed. Typically, it is available as a capsule, tablet, or liquid, taken 3-4 times daily with food or at bedtime. The controlled-release form of Artrane is usually taken once or twice daily, every 12 hours.

Precautions

Before starting Artrane, inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease. Use this medication with caution. Artrane may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, so avoid alcohol and other medications that could worsen these side effects. Do not drive or engage in unsafe activities until you know how the drug affects you. Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Artrane. Maintain proper dental care by brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist regularly. If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Contraindications

Special dosage adjustments may be necessary, or you may not be able to take Artrane if you have liver or kidney infections or gastrointestinal issues.

Possible Side Effects

The most serious side effects of Artrane include severe neutropenia (low white blood cells), hemorrhage (gastrointestinal or cerebral), thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), headache, indigestion, and flushing. Seek medical help immediately if these side effects persist for several hours.

Drug Interactions

Artrane may interact with certain medications, including phenytoin (Dilantin), tamoxifen (Nolvadex), tolbutamide (Orinase), torsemide (Demadex), fluvastatin (Lescol), and blood thinners like warfarin (Coumadin), heparin, ardeparin (Normiflo), dalteparin (Fragmin), danaparoid (Orgaran), enoxaparin (Lovenox), or tinzaparin (Innohep). It may also interact with medications such as alteplase (Activase), anistreplase (Eminase), dipyridamole (Persantine), streptokinase (Kabikinase, Streptase), ticlopidine (Ticlid), and urokinase (Abbokinase). Consult your doctor if you are taking any of these drugs.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

The symptoms of an Artrane overdose are not well-documented. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical assistance immediately.

Storage

Store Artrane at a temperature between 59-86°F (15-30°C). Keep it away from heat, moisture, light, and children.

Disclaimer

This information provides a general overview of Artrane and does not include all directions, potential drug interactions, or precautions. It should not be used for self-treatment or self-diagnosis. Always consult your healthcare provider or doctor for personalized instructions. We disclaim any responsibility for the accuracy of this information or any damages resulting from its use or self-treatment.