Master Benztropine (Cogentin) with Picmonic for Nursing RN

Benztropine (Cogentin) blocks centrally acting muscarinic receptors and helps restore the natural balance of dopamine and acetylcholine in the brain. This helps resolve abnormal muscle contractions and results in improved muscle coordination. Anticholinergic side effects are common because the majority of muscarinic receptors are nearby parasympathetic nerves. Although benztropine is centrally acting, this medication may also affect peripheral muscarinic receptors.

The deficiency of dopamine associated with Parkinson's Disease results in excessive cholinergic activity. As an anticholinergic, benztropine decreases acetylcholine's effect on the brain and minimizes tremors and stiff muscles associated with Parkinson's Disease.

Some antipsychotic medications block dopamine receptors and cause extrapyramidal symptoms, such as involuntary muscle movements or slurred speech. Benztropine blocks centrally acting muscarinic receptors and decreases involuntary abnormal muscle contractions associated with antipsychotic medications.

Benztropine may block cholinergic receptors in the eye and paralyze ciliary muscles; therefore, focusing on far objects and causing nearby objects to look blurred. Inform the patient about the risk of impaired vision and advise them to avoid driving or other possibly hazardous activity. Be sure to periodically measure the patient's intraocular pressure.

Benztropine may block the salivary glands and lead to xerostomia or dry mouth. This may lead to difficulties in swallowing or speaking and result in loss of appetite and weight. The health care provider may consider adjusting the patient's dosage of benztropine or prescribing a different medication to avoid xerostomia. Frequently offer the patient ice and sips of water while ensuring strict oral hygiene.

Benztropine may inhibit the binding of acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors M(2) and M(3) on detrusor smooth muscle cells and other structures within the bladder wall. This leads to decreased muscular tone of the bladder wall and causes urinary retention. Minimize the risk of urinary retention by advising the patient to void immediately prior to taking benztropine. Severe urinary retention may require catheterization or administration of a muscarinic agonist (i.e., bethanechol). Monitor the patient's intake and output.

This drug may block parasympathetic nerves of the heart and cause cardiac dysrhythmias. Instruct the patient to notify their healthcare provider if experiencing palpitations, tachycardia, or irregular heartbeat. Monitor vital signs and observe for symptoms of weakness, dizziness, or peripheral edema.

Benztropine may block the muscarinic receptors of the intestinal tract. This leads to decreased tone and motility of the intestinal smooth muscle and results in constipation. Benztropine is contraindicated in patients with low intestinal muscle tone. Advise the patient to minimize the effects of constipation by increasing dietary fiber, fluids, and physical activity.

Benztropine may cause CNS excitation. Inform the patient that benztropine may cause visual hallucinations, vivid dreams, or paranoia. If the patient taking this medication begins experiencing symptoms of psychosis, the administration of the drug should be stopped. Avoid administering first-generation antipsychotics to relieve psychotic symptoms, because the medication's dopamine-blocking actions will intensify motor symptoms. Psychotic symptoms can be treated with clozapine or quetiapine.