Kemadrin is a medication whose active ingredient is procyclidine. It is also known by the generic name procyclidine hydrochloride. It is commonly used to treat symptoms of Parkinson’s disease and to manage side effects caused by certain psychiatric medications.
The fiscal range for Kemadrin stands at £0.64 to £1.37 per pills. The crux of the pricing revolves around pack dimensions and ingredient quality (20 or 360 mg).
Kemadrin (Procyclidine Hydrochloride)
Anticholinergic agents
Kemadrin is primarily indicated for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and extrapyramidal symptoms, which are drug-induced movement disorders. It helps to manage symptoms like tremor, rigidity, and bradykinesia.
Procyclidine, the active component of Kemadrin, works by inhibiting the action of acetylcholine, which is a neurotransmitter involved in muscle movement. This helps to restore the balance between acetylcholine and dopamine in the brain, improving motor functions.
After oral administration, Procyclidine is absorbed rapidly and completely. The peak plasma concentration is usually achieved within 1 to 2 hours. It has a half-life of approximately 12-15 hours, offering a moderately prolonged action. The drug is metabolized primarily in the liver and excreted through urine and feces.
Kemadrin is available in the form of tablets and an injectable solution. The oral tablets are usually provided in 5 mg doses, while the injectable formulation is a 5 mg/2 ml ampoule.
The typical starting dose for adults is 2.5 mg taken orally three times a day. The dosage may be increased gradually to a maximum of 5 mg taken three times a day, depending on the patient’s response and tolerance. For elderly patients, the initial dose should be lower to account for potential increased sensitivity.
Kemadrin should be taken with a glass of water and can be taken with or without food. It is recommended to maintain consistent timing when taking the medication to ensure stable plasma levels.
Store Kemadrin tablets at room temperature in a tightly closed container, away from light and moisture. The injectable solution should be stored as specified by the manufacturer, usually at room temperature and shielded from extreme conditions.
Procyclidine may interact with other cholinergic and anticholinergic agents, potentially enhancing or diminishing their effects. Caution should be exercised when administered with other central nervous system depressants, as it may potentiate their sedative effects. Concurrent use with antipsychotics may necessitate dosage adjustment.
Common side effects include dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation, urinary retention, and dizziness. Most side effects are mild and tend to subside as the body adjusts to the medication.
Serious side effects are rare but may include confusion, tachycardia, hallucinations, and significant decreases in blood pressure. If these symptoms appear, immediate medical attention is advised.
Patients receiving Kemadrin should be regularly monitored for improvement in Parkinsonian symptoms and potential side effects. In particular, monitoring for signs of anticholinergic toxicity is crucial, especially in the elderly population.
Kemadrin is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to Procyclidine or any excipients in the formulation. It should not be used in patients with angle-closure glaucoma, gastrointestinal obstruction, or prostatic hypertrophy.
In pregnant women, Kemadrin should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. For lactating women, it is unknown if Procyclidine is excreted in breast milk; thus, caution is advised. Pediatric use is not typically recommended due to lack of sufficient data.
Dose adjustments may be required for patients with hepatic impairment due to altered metabolism and excretion. Similarly, dose modifications may be necessary in renal impairment to prevent accumulation of the drug and potential toxicity.
The discontinuation of Kemadrin should be gradual to prevent withdrawal symptoms and exacerbation of Parkinsonian symptoms. Tapering the dose under medical supervision is advised.