Akineton Uses (Cont.)

Akineton Uses for Parkinsonism

Akineton is approved to treat parkinsonism, which includes Parkinson's disease and several other Parkinson's-like conditions. Specifically, it is approved to treat the following:
 
  • Parkinson's disease
  • Arteriosclerotic parkinsonism
  • Postencephalic parkinsonism.
     
(Please see Parkinsonism for more information on these different types of parkinsonism.)
 
Although other types of medications (typically, carbidopa-levodopa medicines) are the mainstay of Parkinson's disease treatment, Akineton can be helpful when used in addition to such medications.
 

How Does Akineton Work?

Akineton is an anticholinergic medication. It works by blocking the effects of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter (a chemical in the nervous system). Normal muscle movement control requires a careful balance of acetylcholine and dopamine (another neurotransmitter). In Parkinson's disease (and with extrapyramidal disorders caused by antipsychotic medications), dopamine levels are decreased, creating an imbalance between dopamine and acetylcholine. By blocking the effects of acetylcholine, Akineton helps to reestablish a normal balance between these two chemicals.
 

Akineton Use in Children

Akineton is not approved for use in children. Discuss the potential risks and benefits of the drug with your child's healthcare provider.
 

Off-Label Akineton Uses

On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend Akineton for something other than the conditions discussed in this article. At this time, using the drug to treat excess salivation ("drooling") due to medications or other causes is considered an off-label Akineton use.
 

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;