Kemadrin (Procyclidine) is used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease such as stiff muscles, paralysis, tremor, difficulties with speech, writing and walking, dribbling, sweating, uncontrolled eye movements and depression. Also used to treat symptoms when Parkinson's isnt present.

Why have I been prescribed Kemadrin?

  • Kemadrin (Procyclidine) is used to treat the symptoms of Parkinson's disease such as stiff muscles, paralysis, tremour, difficulties with speech, writing and walking, dribbling, sweating, uncontrolled eye movements and depression.
  • Some tranquillisers have side effects like the symptoms of Parkinson's disease and they can also cause restlessness and abnormal face and body movements.
Kemadrin is also sometimes used to control these side effects.

How does it work?

  • Kemadrin belongs to a group of medicines called anticholinergics.
  • They block the effects of a substance called acetylcholine in your body which relieves the stiffness and other muscle problems associated with Parkinsons.

When and how do I take it?

  • You will usually start taking Kemadrin three times a day.
  • Take the tablets with a little water to make swallowing easier.

What’s the dose?

  • Your doctor will decide on a dose of Kemadrin which is right for you. The usual starting dose is 1/2 a tablet three times a day. Your doctor may then increase this by 1/2 or 1 tablet per day every two or three days, until the desired effect is seen. The usual maximum daily dose is six tablets.
  • If Kemadrin is being used to control the side effects of another drug, then the usual, maximum daily dose is four tablets. Your Kemadrin treatment may be stopped after 3 or 4 months to see if the side effects return.

Could it interact with other tablets?

Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications or have recently taken any medications including non-prescription items and herbal products.

Especially tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following:

  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors for depression eg phenelzine, isocarboxazid, tranylcypromine.
  • amantadine
  • levodopa
  • antihistamines
  • cisapride
  • metaclopramide
  • paroxetine
  • ketoconazole
  • quinidine

What are the possible risks or side-effects?

Kemadrin Tablets can cause side effects in some people. Please tell your doctor or pharmacist if you get any of the following while you are taking Kemadrin:

  • a dry mouth
  • blurred vision
  • constipation or difficulty in passing urine
  • dizziness
  • feeling confused, restless or anxious
  • hearing unexpected noises or seeing unexpected sights (hallucinations).
  • nausea, vomiting or swelling of the gum
  • rash

Please also note that:

  • if you are taking tranquillisers, unusual body movements, particularly of your hands, arms and legs may occur.
  • if you are taking Kemadrin to control the side effects of tranquillisers, it can, on rare occasions, make the tranquilliser less effective.

If you do experience blurred vision, dizziness, confusion, disorientation or other similar effects, you should not drive or operate machinery. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you notice any other side effects from your medicine which are not mentioned here.

Can I drink alcohol while taking it?

  • There are no known interactions between alcohol and Kemadrin.
  • Always ask your pharmacist/doctor however as other tablets you are taking may have a bearing on whether you can drink alcohol or not.

What if I’m pregnant/breastfeeding?

Kemadrin should only be used in pregnancy or during breast feeding if benefits outweigh the potential risk. Always talk to your doctor first.

 

If you have any more questions please ask your Pharmacist.

Remember to keep all medicines out of reach of children
Please Note:
We have made every effort to ensure that the content of this information sheet is correct at time of publish, but remember that information about drugs may change. This sheet does not list all the uses and side-effects associated with this drug. For full details please see the drug information leaflet which comes with your medicine. Your doctor will assess your medical circumstances and draw your attention to any information or side-effects which may be relevant in your particular case.

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Procyclidine

https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/medicine/2171

http://www.drugs.com/cdi/kemadrin.html

http://www.rxlist.com/kemadrin-side-effects-drug-center.htm

http://www.medsafe.govt.nz/consumers/cmi/k/kemadrin.pdf


 

Health Reference: Parkinson's disease