NZ Formulary

Procyclidine

pro-sye-kli-deen

What does it do?

Procyclidine is used to treat Parkinson’s disease and sometimes other conditions.

Before you start

  • Tell your doctor if you have bladder, prostate, bowel or mental health problems, or angle-closure glaucoma.
  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Take procyclidine regularly as directed with food and a glass of water.

What if you forget a dose?

If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Otherwise, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Some medicines available without a prescription may react with procyclidine including:

  • some antihistamines or anti-nausea medicines such as promethazine (e.g. Phenergan®), hyoscine (e.g. Scopoderm®), meclozine (e.g. Sea-legs®)

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.

Important information continues on next page.

What side effects might you notice?

Side EffectsRecommended action

Fast or irregular heartbeat

Hallucinations, unusual behaviour or thinking

Memory problems, confusion

Tell your doctor

Dry mouth, blurred vision, constipation or trouble peeing (anticholinergic effects)

Tiredness or weakness, dizziness

Tell your doctor if troublesome

Stomach upset

Take with food and tell your doctor if symptoms continue

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

  • Procyclidine can impair your ability to do tasks such as driving or using machines. Alcohol makes this worse. Discuss your risk with your health professional. (search NZTA - Are you safe to drive?)
  • Do not stop taking procyclidine suddenly without talking to your doctor first. Your doctor may reduce the dose gradually.