Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Ethopropazine is prescribed to alleviate symptoms of Parkinson’s disease or movement disorders (extrapyramidal signs-EPS) resulting from the adverse effects of specific psychiatric medications. Ethopropazine falls under the category of medications known as phenothiazines. Its mechanism involves blocking a particular natural substance (acetylcholine), thereby reducing symptoms such as muscle stiffness/spasms, tremors, and excessive saliva production.
Uses and Dosage
Follow your doctor’s instructions and take this medication orally, with or without food, as directed, typically 2 to 3 times daily.
Your doctor may initially prescribe a low dose and then gradually increase it to determine the most effective dosage for you. The prescribed amount depends on your medical condition and how you respond to the treatment.
Consistently take this medication to derive the maximum benefit from it. To aid in remembering, take it at the same times each day.
Inform your doctor if your condition fails to improve or worsens.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- constipation
- decreased sweating
- dizziness or lightheadedness
- drowsiness
- dryness of the mouth, nose, or throat
- increased sensitivity of the eyes to light
- headache
- nausea or vomiting
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- blurred or double vision
- confusion or memory impairment
- difficult or painful urination (especially for senior men)
- eye pain
- fainting
- loss of memory (especially for seniors)
- muscle cramps
- numbness or weakness in the hands or feet
- rapid heartbeat
- skin rash
- drowsiness (severe)
- hallucinations
- seizures
- shortness of breath or troubled breathing
Caution
- Before starting ethopropazine, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you have, whether to this medication, other phenothiazines (such as chlorpromazine), or any other substances. This product might contain inactive ingredients that could provoke allergic reactions or other issues.
- Before using this medication, discuss your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have a personal or family history of glaucoma, respiratory problems, heart conditions, hypertension, gastrointestinal issues, esophageal problems, kidney or liver disease, mental or mood disorders, myasthenia gravis, seizures, hyperthyroidism, or urinary difficulties.
- This medication may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Alcohol or marijuana can exacerbate these effects.
- Refrain from driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness or clear vision until you can do so safely.
- This medication may decrease sweating, increasing the risk of heat stroke. Avoid activities that may lead to overheating, such as strenuous work or exercise in hot weather, or using hot tubs. Stay hydrated and dress lightly in hot weather. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience a persistent fever, changes in mental state, headache, or dizziness due to overheating.
- Older adults may be more susceptible to the effects of this medication, particularly dizziness, urinary difficulties, and constipation.
- During pregnancy, use this medication only when absolutely necessary. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor.
- It is uncertain whether this medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Parsitan is available in the following forms and strengths:
- Parsitan tablet:
- 50 mg
FAQ
What should I do if I miss a dose of Parsitan?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Does Parsitan treat tardive dyskinesia?
Parsitan does not treat movement problems caused by tardive dyskinesia and may worsen them.
Resources
- https://go.drugbank.com/salts/DBSALT000813
- https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/medications/Pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=fdb0691#fdb0691-08
- https://www.rxhealthmed.ca/medication_search/parsitan/
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/parsitan#adverseeffects
- https://www.healthlinkbc.ca/medications/ethopropazine-oral
